Vladimir Putin’s fifth term as president of Russia has begun, following his inauguration in Moscow on Tuesday. The ceremony was held at the Grand Kremlin Palace, steeped in tradition and symbolism, reminiscent of past inaugurations dating back to Boris Yeltsin's second term in 1996.
At 71 years old, Putin arrived at the ceremony after a short car ride from his workplace, underscoring the continuity of leadership within the Russian political sphere. The current protocol, adhered to since 1996, was followed meticulously, emphasizing the solemnity of the occasion.
Central to the inauguration is the oath to serve the nation and its people, a pledge taken with one hand placed on a special copy of the constitution used exclusively for such occasions. The document used during Tuesday’s ceremony had been updated to reflect amendments adopted in 2020 and notably included the incorporation of four former Ukrainian regions which had voted in referendums in 2022 to join Russia.
Lawmakers from both chambers of the nation’s parliament and justices of the Constitutional Court were present. Following the oath, Chief Justice Valery Zorkin confirmed Putin’s fifth presidency, which will last for six years.
Putin’s previous inaugurations took place in 2000, 2004, 2012, and 2018. This year stands out, as a number of Western nations and the EU chose to boycott the event. Their governments claim that this year’s presidential election in Russia, which Putin won with a record 87.28% of the vote, was not free and fair.
Russia’s relations with the West are at one of their worst points in history. Moscow has accused the US and its allies of waging a proxy war against Russia. Sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and supplies of military aid to Ukraine are meant to contain Russia’s development, its leadership has said. The West claims it is reacting to “unprovoked aggression” by Putin and his government.
Despite these challenges, Putin’s leadership remains unyielding, bolstered by his popularity among a significant portion of the Russian populace and a carefully cultivated image of strength and decisiveness. In his optimistic inauguration speech, Putin addressed an audience of about 2,500 people, proclaiming, “We are a united and great nation. Together we will overcome all obstacles, achieve everything we have planned, and together we will win,” as he launched another six-year term.
“I assure you that the interests and security of the people of Russia will continue to be above all for me,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of the Russian people amidst ongoing challenges.
While Putin expressed openness to dialogue with Western countries, he stressed that it must be conducted on equal terms, respecting each other's interests. He presented a choice to the West: to either continue attempts to contain Russia through aggression and pressure, or seek a path to cooperation and peace.
Russian and Ukrainian troops have suffered heavy casualties in the ongoing war, with Russian forces making significant gains in Ukraine. Despite the toll on both sides, Putin's administration remains resolute in its pursuit of strategic objectives.
As Putin begins his new term, the Russian government is routinely dissolved, allowing him to appoint a new prime minister and cabinet, shaping the direction of governance for the coming years.
Critics of Putin's leadership argue that his legacy over the past nearly 25 years has been marked by war, slow economic growth, and repression. As Russia enters another chapter under Putin's rule, the world watches closely, cognizant of the profound implications his policies will have on Russia's future trajectory and its relationships with global powers.
