Vladimir Putin is the President of Russia. He has been in power since 1999, and is the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin. Putin is a controversial figure, and his policies have been criticized by both domestic and international observers.
Putin’s Rise to Power
Putin was born in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) in 1952. He studied law at Leningrad State University, and then worked as a KGB officer. In 1990, he was elected to the Leningrad City Council. In 1991, he became deputy mayor of Saint Petersburg.
In 1996, Putin was appointed head of the Federal Security Service (FSB), the successor to the KGB. In 1998, he became secretary of the Security Council of Russia. In 1999, he was appointed prime minister by President Boris Yeltsin.
When Yeltsin resigned in 1999, Putin became acting president. He was elected president in 2000, and re-elected in 2004 and 2012. He is currently serving his third term as president, which will end in 2024.
Putin’s Policies
Putin’s policies have been characterized by a strong emphasis on state control and centralization. He has sought to increase the power of the presidency, and has reduced the power of regional governments and the legislature. He has also tightened control over the media, and has cracked down on opposition groups.
In foreign policy, Putin has sought to assert Russian influence in the former Soviet Union and beyond. He has annexed Crimea from Ukraine, and has supported separatist movements in eastern Ukraine. He has also intervened in the Syrian civil war, and has supported the Assad government.
Controversy
Putin’s policies have been criticized by both domestic and international observers. Critics have accused him of authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights abuses. They have also criticized his foreign policy, which they say has led to increased tensions with the West.
Putin’s supporters argue that he has restored stability and order to Russia after the chaos of the 1990s. They also credit him with improving the Russian economy and increasing the country’s international prestige.
Google Trends
“Vladimir Putin” is rapidly rising on Google Trends PT because of the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine. The invasion has sparked widespread international condemnation, and has led to calls for Putin to be removed from power. The invasion has also raised concerns about the future of democracy in Russia and the stability of Europe.
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Please search for “vladimir putin” which is rapidly rising on Google Trends PT and explain in detail. Answers should be in English.
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