Putin Sworn in for Record Fifth Presidential Term Amidst Growing Tension.

By Caroline Ameh

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been inaugurated for a historic fifth term in office, solidifying his grip on power in a flamboyant ceremony held at the Kremlin.

At 71 years old, Putin’s tenure spans over two decades, with his latest victory in March securing him another six years in office amidst controversy surrounding the election process.

Taking place within the opulent Grand Kremlin Palace, Putin placed his hand on the Russian Constitution, pledging to defend it as he addressed a crowd of hand-selected dignitaries.

Since assuming office at the turn of the century, Putin has overseen Russia’s transformation from a nation recovering from economic turmoil to a formidable global player, albeit one that has drawn criticism for its aggressive foreign policies.

The 2022 invasion of Ukraine, described as Europe’s largest conflict since World War II, has resulted in severe sanctions imposed on Russia by Western nations. In response, Russia has sought support from alternative alliances, including China, Iran, and North Korea.

With Russian forces gaining ground in Ukraine and employing scorched-earth tactics, the conflict has escalated, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.

Putin’s dominance in domestic politics is mirrored by his confrontational stance against Western powers, whom he accuses of attempting to undermine Russia’s sovereignty through their involvement in Ukraine.

Despite facing criticism for the legitimacy of his latest election victory, Putin remains unchallenged within Russia’s political landscape. Opposition figures, such as Alexei Navalny, have either been imprisoned, exiled, or, in Navalny’s case, died under suspicious circumstances.

The absence of Western representatives, including those from the United States, Britain, Canada, and most European Union nations, at Putin’s inauguration reflects the strained diplomatic relations between Russia and the West. Only France opted to send its ambassador to the ceremony.

Responding to the event, Ukraine condemned Putin’s continued hold on power, describing it as an attempt to legitimize a regime that has been accused of aggression and authoritarianism.