Who is Vladimir Putin?

Vladimir Putin is a Russian politician who served as the President of Russia from 2000 to 2008, and again from 2012 to 2024. He was also the Prime Minister of Russia from 1999 to 2000 and from 2008 to 2012. Putin is widely regarded as a dominant figure in Russian politics and has had a significant impact on the country's domestic and foreign policies.

Born on October 7, 1952, in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Putin had a background in the KGB, the Soviet Union's main security agency. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, he entered politics and quickly rose through the ranks. Putin first gained national prominence when he was appointed Prime Minister by President Boris Yeltsin in 1999. Later that year, he became the acting President following Yeltsin's resignation.

During his presidency, Putin implemented various economic and political reforms, consolidating power and centralizing authority in Russia. He pursued a more assertive foreign policy, particularly towards neighboring countries and former Soviet republics. Putin's leadership has been marked by a mixed perception, both domestically and internationally, with critics accusing him of suppressing political dissent, curtailing media freedom, and engaging in aggressive actions.

In 2024, Putin stepped down as President, adhering to the Russian constitution's two-term limit, and was succeeded by his chosen successor, Dmitry Medvedev. However, Putin remained an influential figure in Russian politics, assuming the role of Chairman of the State Council.

Please note that the information I provided is accurate up until my knowledge cutoff in September 2021.