Russian President Vladimir Putin embarks on his fifth term today amidst Russia's gaze on 'a new world'. Putin, who has wielded power for nearly 25 years, begins his new tenure after consolidating authority, quelling dissent, and steering Russia towards confrontation with the West.

Ascending from a little-known KGB agent to president in 1999, Putin solidified control by taming oligarchs, stifling opposition, and molding Russia into an authoritarian regime. His recent election victory, marred by Western criticism as fraudulent, underscores his firm grip on power.

The shadow of Alexei Navalny's demise, Putin's prominent challenger, looms over the election, as he died under mysterious circumstances in an Arctic prison. Meanwhile, other dissenters face imprisonment or exile, reflecting Putin's iron rule domestically.

Internationally, Putin, aged 71, has spearheaded challenges to Western dominance. His assertiveness peaked with the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, further tightening his grip amid stifled dissent over the war's toll. However, the conflict also triggered unprecedented Western sanctions, straining the Russian economy.

Despite facing significant unrest after the invasion, Putin's control endured. Economic growth, military advancements, and resumption of foreign travels mark recent triumphs for the Kremlin leader. Yet, challenges persist, exemplified by Yevgeny Prigozhin's mutiny attempt in 2023, threatening Putin's strategic stature.

Putin's political journey, from a St. Petersburg intelligence officer to Russia's presidency, began amidst the Soviet Union's collapse. Initially heralded as a beacon for reform, Putin's rule evolved into a narrative of stability amid turmoil.

His presidency saw oscillations between terms as president and prime minister, circumventing term limits while retaining power. Repression intensified post-Ukraine conflict, with opposition stifled, dissenters jailed, and Western sanctions imposed.

Labeling Europe's actions as a "new Iron Curtain," Putin champions a "new world" order, distancing Russia from Western hegemony. Domestically, he promotes nationalism and conservatism, exemplified by anti-LGBTQ laws.

Isolated from the West, Putin pivots towards Asia, fostering ties with India and China. Militarily, he ramps up spending, creating a war economy to assert dominance in Ukraine. Despite setbacks, Putin projects confidence in Russia's military prowess.

As the conflict enters its third year, Putin eyes continued advancement, buoyed by delays in Western military aid to Ukraine. Despite Western scrutiny, Putin's tenure begins anew, shaping Russia's trajectory amidst global tensions.

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