Vladímir Putin - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Early Life: Vladimir Putin was born on October 7, 1952, in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), Russia. He grew up in a working-class family and studied law at Leningrad State University.
- 2. KGB Career: Putin joined the Soviet Union's security agency, the KGB, in 1975. He served as a KGB officer for 16 years, rising to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
- 3. Political Rise: Putin entered politics in the early 1990s after the collapse of the Soviet Union. He worked in the St. Petersburg city government before moving to Moscow, where he eventually became Prime Minister in 1999.
- 4. Presidency: Putin was elected President of Russia in 2000 and served two consecutive terms until 2008. He then became Prime Minister for four years before being re-elected as President in 2012.
- 5. Authoritarian Rule: Putin's presidency has been marked by a consolidation of power and crackdown on political opposition. Critics accuse him of suppressing dissent and limiting freedom of speech.
- 6. Annexation of Crimea: In 2014, Putin oversaw the annexation of Crimea, a region of Ukraine, following a controversial referendum. The move was widely condemned by the international community.
- 7. Foreign Policy: Putin has pursued an assertive foreign policy, including military interventions in Syria and support for separatist movements in Ukraine. He has also sought to strengthen ties with countries like China and Iran.
- 8. Personal Image: Putin has cultivated a strongman image, often appearing shirtless in photoshoots to showcase his physical fitness. He is known for his judo skills and has been portrayed as a tough and decisive leader.
- 9. Wealth: Putin's personal wealth is a subject of speculation, with estimates ranging from tens of billions to hundreds of billions of dollars. Critics accuse him of corruption and using his position for personal gain.
- 10. Legacy: Putin's legacy is a subject of debate. Supporters credit him with restoring stability and national pride to Russia, while critics argue that his rule has undermined democracy and human rights. Putin remains a dominant figure in Russian politics, with no clear successor in sight.