Vladimir Putin

Vladimir Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as president of Russia since 2012, with a previous presidency from 2000 to 2008.

Vladimir Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as president of Russia since 2012, with a previous presidency from 2000 to 2008. He also served as prime minister from 1999 to 2000 and from 2008 to 2012, and is widely described as Russia’s dominant political figure since 1999.

Early life and education

Putin was born on 7 October 1952 in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg. He studied law at Leningrad State University and later earned a Ph.D. in economics.

Political career

After working in the Soviet and Russian security services, Putin rose through Russian politics in the 1990s. He became prime minister in 1999, president in 2000, returned to the presidency in 2012, and won re-election in 2024.

Presidency

Putin’s tenure has been marked by long-term centralization of power and major foreign-policy conflicts, including Russia’s war against Ukraine. He is one of the most influential and controversial leaders of the post-Soviet era.

Public image and legacy

Supporters portray Putin as a stabilizing national leader, while critics focus on democratic backsliding, repression of opposition, and military aggression. International coverage commonly describes him as the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin.