Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, born on October 7, 1952, in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Russia, is a prominent Russian political figure who has served as both President and Prime Minister of Russia. His leadership has significantly influenced Russia’s political landscape in the 21st century.

Early Life and Education

Putin was born into a working-class family. His father, Vladimir Spiridonovich Putin, served in the Soviet Navy and was wounded during World War II, while his mother, Maria Ivanovna Putina, worked in a factory. He was the youngest of three children, with his two elder brothers dying in childhood.

In 1975, Putin graduated from Leningrad State University with a degree in law. During his university years, he joined the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and developed an interest in intelligence work.

KGB Career

After graduation, Putin joined the KGB, the Soviet Union’s main security agency. He served for 16 years, primarily in foreign intelligence. From 1985 to 1990, he was stationed in Dresden, East Germany, under the First Chief Directorate, which handled foreign intelligence operations. He retired from active KGB service in 1990 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Entry into Politics

Upon returning to Russia, Putin began his political career in Saint Petersburg, serving as an advisor to Mayor Anatoly Sobchak and later as first deputy mayor. In 1996, he moved to Moscow and joined the presidential administration under Boris Yeltsin. He held various positions, including director of the Federal Security Service (FSB) and secretary of the Security Council.

Rise to Presidency

In August 1999, Yeltsin appointed Putin as Prime Minister. On December 31, 1999, Yeltsin resigned, making Putin the acting president. He was elected president in March 2000 and re-elected in 2004.

Due to constitutional term limits, Putin served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2012 under President Dmitry Medvedev. In 2012, he was re-elected as president and has since been re-elected in 2018 and 2024.

Domestic and Foreign Policies

During his presidency, Putin has focused on centralizing power and restoring Russia’s global influence. Domestically, he has implemented economic reforms and increased state control over media and political opposition.

Internationally, Putin has pursued assertive foreign policies. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea, leading to international sanctions. In 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, resulting in widespread condemnation and further sanctions.

Constitutional Amendments and Recent Elections

In 2020, constitutional amendments were passed, allowing Putin to run for two additional six-year terms, potentially extending his presidency until 2036. In the 2024 presidential election, he secured a fifth term with 88% of the vote.

Personal Life

Putin married Lyudmila Shkrebneva in 1983, and they had two daughters, Maria and Katerina. The couple divorced in 2014. Putin is known for maintaining a private personal life, and details about his family are scarce.

Legacy and Influence

Vladimir Putin’s tenure has been marked by efforts to reassert Russia’s position on the global stage and consolidate power domestically. His leadership style and policies have been both praised for restoring stability and criticized for authoritarian tendencies. As of 2025, he remains a central figure in global politics.