Putin Celebrates Fifth Term Victory Amidst Quiet Protests in Russia
Vladimir Putin secured a fifth term as Russian President with an unsurprising victory, as initial election results showed a landslide win. Subdued protests and global disapproval serve as reminders of the challenges Putin faces in maintaining control amidst growing discontent.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has secured his fifth term what he hails as a resounding victory in the country's recent elections, despite widespread criticism of the electoral process as undemocratic and lacking legitimacy. He's been in power since 1999 and this victory will make him the longest-serving leader in Russia for over 200 years.
Addressing reporters in a post-election news conference, Putin portrayed his win as a validation of his controversial decision to order a military intervention in Ukraine...