As Putin begins another 6-year term, he is entering a new era of extraordinary power in Russia

Just on the cusp of completing twenty-five years at the helm of Russia, Vladimir Putin is poised to embark on yet another six-year presidential term, wielding unparalleled authority as he places his hand on the constitution once more. Since his ascent to acting president in the twilight hours of 1999, Putin has sculpted Russia into a formidable monolith, quelling political dissent, driving dissenting journalists into exile, and championing a conservative agenda centered around "traditional values," often marginalizing segments of society.

His grip on power is so formidable that other officials appear mere spectators as he boldly ventures into conflicts like the war in Ukraine, defying international expectations and risking severe repercussions. With such dominion at his fingertips, the trajectory of Putin's next term looms as an imposing question, both domestically and internationally.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russia steadily advances on the battlefield, remains a paramount concern, with Putin exhibiting no inclination to alter course.

“The war in Ukraine is pivotal to his current political narrative, and there's little to suggest any deviation from that path. It permeates every aspect,” remarked Brian Taylor, a professor at Syracuse University and author of “The Code of Putinism.”

“In his recent state of the nation address, Putin doubled down on Moscow’s objectives in Ukraine, vowing to safeguard sovereignty and citizens’ security at any cost,” Taylor noted. Putin boasted of the military's prowess, claiming significant combat experience and asserting control over multiple sectors.

However, such military endeavors come at a staggering price, potentially diverting funds away from vital domestic initiatives outlined in Putin's address, which span education, welfare, and poverty alleviation. Taylor suggested these proposals might serve more as symbolic gestures than concrete plans for implementation.

“Putin envisions himself within the broader historical context of Russian legacy, with ambitions like reclaiming Ukraine overshadowing socioeconomic agendas,” Taylor reflected.