Vladimir Putin is the current president of Russia, holding the office since 2012, and previously from 2000 to 2008. He also served as Prime Minister from 1999 to 2000 and again from 2008 to 2012. His leadership has been characterized by a centralized, authoritarian style of governance, marked by increased state control over the economy and media, as well as a focus on restoring Russia's global influence. Putin's tenure has been controversial both domestically and internationally, facing accusations of human rights abuses, political repression, and aggressive foreign policy actions, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
