History of Vladimir Putin in Timeline
Vladimir Putin, the current president of Russia, is a former intelligence officer with a long history in Russian politics. He has served as president or prime minister continuously since 1999, making him the longest-ruling Russian or Soviet leader since Joseph Stalin. His tenure includes terms as prime minister from 1999 to 2000 and 2008 to 2012, and as president from 2000 to 2008 and from 2012 to the present.
1940: Birth of Putin's Brother Viktor
Vladimir Putin's brother, Viktor, was born in 1940 but tragically died in 1942 during the Siege of Leningrad.
1941: Death of Putin's Maternal Grandmother
In 1941, Putin's maternal grandmother was killed by German occupiers in the Tver region.
1942: Putin's Father Severely Wounded
In 1942, during the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union, Putin's father, who served in the destruction battalion of the NKVD and later in the regular army, was severely wounded.
1942: Putin's Father Severely Wounded
In 1942, during the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union, Putin's father, who served in the destruction battalion of the NKVD and later in the regular army, was severely wounded.
1943: Tehran Conference
In 1943, Joseph Stalin attended the Tehran Conference, marking the last visit of a Soviet or Russian leader to Iran before Putin's visit in 2007.
October 1952: Birth of Vladimir Putin
Vladimir Putin was born in October 1952 in Leningrad, Soviet Union (now Saint Petersburg, Russia).
October 1952: Birth of Vladimir Putin
Vladimir Putin was born in October 1952 in Leningrad, Soviet Union (now Saint Petersburg, Russia). He was the youngest of three children, and his birth followed the tragic deaths of his two older brothers.
September 1960: Putin Starts School
On September 1960, Putin began his education at School No. 193 at Baskov Lane, near his home.
1970: Putin Begins Law Studies
In 1970, Vladimir Putin enrolled in law studies at Leningrad State University named after Andrei Zhdanov (now Saint Petersburg State University).
1972: US Withdraws from Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty
In 1972, the United States withdrew from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.
1972: Putin's Nuclear Strategy and the ABM Treaty
Putin justified his nuclear buildup by citing the U.S. withdrawal from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty (ABM Treaty) under President George W. Bush. This move, according to Putin, threatened Russia's strategic nuclear deterrent, leading to a program focused on developing advanced weapons to counter perceived American ballistic missile defense systems.
1975: Putin Joins the KGB
In 1975, Vladimir Putin joined the KGB, the main security agency for the Soviet Union, and began his training at the 401st KGB School in Okhta, Leningrad.
1975: Putin Graduates from Leningrad State University
In 1975, Vladimir Putin graduated from Leningrad State University with a law degree. His thesis focused on "The Most Favored Nation Trading Principle in International Law."
1978: Publication of "Strategic Planning and Policy"
In 1978, the book "Strategic Planning and Policy" by King and Cleland was published, from which Putin allegedly copied entire paragraphs for his economics thesis. This accusation of plagiarism, according to Western standards, was brought to light by Igor Danchenko and Clifford Gaddy.
July 1983: Putin's Marriage to Lyudmila Shkrebneva
Vladimir Putin married Lyudmila Shkrebneva in July 1983.
September 1984: Putin's KGB Training in Moscow
In September 1984, Putin was sent to Moscow for further training at the Yuri Andropov Red Banner Institute.
April 1985: Birth of Maria Putina
Maria Putina, Vladimir Putin's first daughter, was born in April 1985 in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg).
1985: Putin's Posting in Dresden
From 1985, Putin began his service in Dresden, East Germany, working undercover as a translator.
August 1986: Birth of Yekaterina Putina
Yekaterina Putina, Vladimir Putin's second daughter, was born in August 1986 in Dresden, East Germany.
1987: Potential Violation of the INF Treaty
Analysts have suggested that Putin's nuclear strategy might have violated the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty). These concerns raised questions about the implications of Russia's nuclear modernization efforts for international arms control agreements.
November 1989: Putin Secures Documents During the Fall of the Berlin Wall
During the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989, Putin reportedly secured documents from the Soviet Cultural Center and the KGB villa in Dresden. He allegedly burned some KGB files but preserved others, handing over the Soviet Cultural Center archives to German authorities. The selection process for these documents remains unclear.
1989: Soviet Union Era as Benchmark for Democratic Backsliding
Freedom House's assessment in 2004 used the state of freedom during the Soviet Union era in 1989 as a benchmark for Russia's democratic backsliding, underscoring the severity of the decline in freedoms.
1989: Anti-Communist Protests in Dresden
In 1989, anti-communist protests erupted in Dresden, with demonstrators attempting to occupy Stasi buildings. Putin later publicly recounted his confrontations with these protestors.
May 1990: Putin's Appointment as Advisor to the Mayor of Leningrad
In May 1990, Putin was appointed as an advisor on international affairs to Anatoly Sobchak, the Mayor of Leningrad. This marked a significant transition from his intelligence background to a political role.
1990: End of the Cold War and the Fall of the Soviet Union
In 1990, the Cold War ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Despite claims by Vladimir Putin that the West sought to exploit Russia during this time, many firsthand accounts suggest otherwise. Instead of being seen as a defeat, many Russian leaders viewed the fall of the Soviet Union as a form of liberation.
1990: Putin and Lyudmila Return to Russia
In 1990, after living in East Germany, Vladimir Putin and his wife, Lyudmila, returned to Russia. This move coincided with the fall of the Soviet Union and marked a turning point in Putin's life and career.
1990: Putin's Return to Leningrad and KGB Reserve Status
After the collapse of the East German government, Putin returned to Leningrad in early 1990. He was placed on KGB "active reserve" status and worked at Leningrad State University while continuing his doctoral dissertation.
1990: End of Putin's Dresden Posting
In 1990, Putin's posting in Dresden, East Germany, came to an end.
June 1991: Putin's Appointment as Head of External Relations Committee
In June 1991, Putin became head of the Committee for External Relations in the Mayor's Office of Leningrad. His responsibilities included promoting international relations and attracting foreign investments.
August 1991: Putin's Resignation from the KGB
Putin claimed to have resigned from the KGB on August 20, 1991, during the coup attempt against Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. He stated his disagreement with the coup, marking a turning point in his career.
1991: Putin's Second Resignation from the KGB
Putin reiterated his resignation from the KGB in a 2017 interview, emphasizing his disapproval of the 1991 coup against Gorbachev. This solidified his departure from the intelligence service.
1991: Dissolution of the CPSU
The Communist Party of the Soviet Union (CPSU), which Putin was required to join during his university years, ceased to exist in 1991.
1993: Car Crash and the Beginning of Putin's Religious Awakening
In 1993, Putin's wife was involved in a serious car crash. This event, according to Putin, marked the start of his religious awakening.
March 1994: Putin Appointed as First Deputy Chairman
In March 1994, Putin was appointed as the first deputy chairman of the Government of Saint Petersburg, marking his ascent within the city's administration.
1994: Putin's Assumption of Political and Governmental Positions
From 1994 to 1996, Putin took on various political and governmental positions in Saint Petersburg, indicating his expanding involvement in local politics.
1994: Concept of Eurasian Union Proposed
The idea of a Eurasian Union was initially proposed by the president of Kazakhstan in 1994.
May 1995: Putin's Involvement with "Our Home - Russia" Party
In May 1995, Putin became actively involved with the pro-government "Our Home - Russia" political party, organizing its Saint Petersburg branch and managing their legislative election campaign.
June 1996: Putin's Resignation and Move to Moscow
Following Sobchak's electoral defeat in June 1996, Putin resigned from his position in Saint Petersburg and moved to Moscow. This move marked a significant shift in his career, transitioning from local to national politics.
August 1996: Putin's Dacha Fire and Spiritual Awakening
In August 1996, a fire destroyed Putin's dacha, further solidifying his religious beliefs which had begun after a serious car crash involving his wife in 1993.
1996: Putin's Dacha and the Ozero Cooperative
In 1996, after his return from KGB service, Vladimir Putin's dacha in Solovyovka burned down. He rebuilt an identical one and formed a cooperative society called "Ozero" ("Lake") with seven friends who built dachas nearby, creating a gated community.
1996: Putin's Continued Leadership Despite Investigation
Despite a 1991 investigation that recommended his dismissal for alleged financial misconduct, Putin remained head of the Committee for External Relations until 1996, demonstrating his political resilience.
March 1997: Putin's Appointment as Deputy Chief of Presidential Staff
President Boris Yeltsin appointed Putin deputy chief of the Presidential Staff in March 1997. He held this position until May 1998, further solidifying his role in the national government.
March 1997: Putin's Role in Presidential Property Management
Putin served as deputy chief of the Presidential Property Management Department until March 1997, overseeing the transfer of former Soviet assets to the Russian Federation.
April 1997: Putin Achieves Highest Federal State Civilian Service Rank
In April 1997, Putin was promoted to 1st class Active State Councillor of the Russian Federation, the highest federal state civilian service rank, demonstrating his rising status within the government.
June 1997: Putin's Leadership of "Our Home - Russia" Saint Petersburg Branch
From 1995 to June 1997, Putin served as the leader of the Saint Petersburg branch of the "Our Home - Russia" party, indicating his growing influence within the political organization.
June 1997: Putin's Economics Dissertation and Plagiarism Allegations
In June 1997, Putin defended his Candidate of Science dissertation in economics. However, allegations of plagiarism arose, with the Brookings Institution finding evidence of copied material from an American textbook.
1997: Putin Receives Economics Degree
In 1997, Putin obtained a degree in economics (kandidat ekonomicheskikh nauk) from the Saint Petersburg Mining University. His thesis examined energy dependencies and their utilization in foreign policy.
May 1998: Putin Appointed as First Deputy Chief of Presidential Staff for Regions
Putin was appointed First Deputy Chief of the Presidential Staff for the regions in May 1998, succeeding Viktoriya Mitina. This role involved overseeing regional affairs and administration.
May 1998: End of Putin's Term as Deputy Chief of Presidential Staff
Putin's term as deputy chief of the Presidential Staff ended in May 1998, marking a transition to other roles within the government.
June 1998: Conclusion of Putin's Role in Presidential Property Management
Putin's role as chief of the Main Control Directorate of the Presidential Property Management Department concluded in June 1998, signifying another shift in his responsibilities.
July 1998: Putin's Leadership in Power Delimitation Commission
In July 1998, Putin was appointed to head the commission responsible for preparing agreements on the delimitation of power between the regions and the federal center. This position involved navigating complex political and administrative dynamics within Russia.
August 1998: Russian Financial Crash
The Russian financial crisis of August 1998 had a profound impact on Putin's approach to governance, as he recognized the political destabilizing potential of financial instability.
August 1999: Appointment as First Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister
In August 1999, Putin was appointed as one of three first deputy prime ministers and subsequently as acting prime minister by President Yeltsin, who declared his wish for Putin to succeed him. Putin accepted the nomination for presidency on the same day.
September 1999: Rise in Popularity Amidst National Crisis
In September 1999, following the Russian apartment bombings and the Dagestan invasion, Putin's firm stance on law and order and his determined approach to the Second Chechen War increased his popularity. His image as a strong leader allowed him to surpass his political rivals who were vying for Yeltsin's position.
December 1999: Yeltsin's Resignation and Putin's Appointment as Acting President
Yeltsin's unexpected resignation on December 31, 1999, led to Putin constitutionally becoming the Acting President of the Russian Federation. Putin continued a planned visit to Russian troops in Chechnya despite assuming this new role.
December 1999: Support for Unity Party
While not officially affiliated with any political party in December 1999, Putin publicly supported the newly formed Unity Party. This party went on to win the second-largest share of votes in the Duma elections, reciprocating by supporting Putin's political aspirations.
December 1999: Putin Outlines Russia's Challenges and Goals
In December 1999, Putin published "Russia at the Turn of the Millenium," outlining his view of Russia's challenges and foreign policy objectives, focusing on preserving Russian unity and countering perceived threats from the West.
December 1999: Presidential Decree Guaranteeing Protection for Yeltsin and Family
On December 31, 1999, Putin's first presidential decree ensured protection for the former president, Yeltsin, and his family. This decree prevented any corruption charges against them.
1999: Suppression of Critical Journalists
Since 1999, Putin has been accused of systematically punishing journalists who challenge his official viewpoint. This alleged crackdown on media freedom raised concerns about the state of free speech and independent journalism in Russia.
1999: Beginning of Putin's "Reform" Years
Putin's first term, spanning from 1999 to 2003, was characterized by economist Sergey Guriyev as a period of "reform" in terms of economic policy.
1999: Putin Publicly Denounces Communism
Putin publicly denounced communism in 1999, calling it a "blind alley" deviating from civilization. This statement marked a significant stance in the post-Soviet era.
1999: Adapted CFE Treaty
In 1999, an updated version of the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe Treaty, known as the Adapted CFE Treaty was created, but shunned by NATO members pending Russian withdrawal from Transnistria and the Republic of Georgia.
March 2000: Putin's First Presidential Election Victory
While opponents prepared for a June election, Yeltsin's resignation shifted the presidential elections to March 26, 2000. Putin secured victory in the first round with 53% of the votes.
May 2000: Putin Visits Tashkent, Signaling Improved Relations with Uzbekistan
Putin's visit to Tashkent in May 2000 marked a significant improvement in relations with Uzbekistan, the second-largest post-Soviet republic after Ukraine, following a period of strained relations during Yeltsin's presidency and Islam Karimov's distancing from Moscow.
May 2000: Putin's Presidential Inauguration and Appointment of Prime Minister
Putin's inauguration as President took place on May 7, 2000. He then appointed Mikhail Kasyanov, the minister of finance, as prime minister.
May 2000: Putin Establishes Vertical Power Structure
In May 2000, Putin issued a decree restructuring Russia's federal system, organizing the 89 federal subjects into seven administrative federal districts. He appointed a presidential envoy, termed "Plenipotentiary Representative," to oversee each district, aiming to centralize authority.
June 2000: Original Date for Presidential Elections
June 2000 was the initial date planned for the presidential elections before Yeltsin's resignation moved the date to March.
July 2000: Putin Gains Authority to Dismiss Regional Heads
In July 2000, a law initiated by Putin granted him the power to remove the heads of Russia's 89 federal subjects, further consolidating his control over the country's regional leadership.
July 2000: Putin's Visit to North Korea
In July 2000, Putin became the first Russian or Soviet leader to visit North Korea, meeting with Kim Jong-il shortly after a visit to South Korea.
August 2000: Dropping of Criminal Investigation Involving Putin
A criminal investigation from 1995, which involved Putin as a suspect during his time in the Saint Petersburg city government, was dismissed in August 2000.
August 2000: Kursk Submarine Disaster and Criticism of Putin's Response
Putin faced a significant challenge to his popularity in August 2000. He was criticized for his handling of the Kursk submarine disaster, particularly for the delay in his return from vacation and for not visiting the scene immediately.
October 2000: Strategic Partnership Between India and Russia
The Declaration on Strategic Partnership between India and Russia was signed in October 2000, marking a significant step in their bilateral relations.
December 2000: Dismissal of Case Against Prosecutor General
In December 2000, another case against the prosecutor general was dismissed due to "lack of evidence", even though Swiss prosecutors had submitted numerous documents.
2000: Putin's Approval Rating Baseline
Putin's approval rating had been consistently high since 2000.
2000: Launch of Socio-Economic Development Program
Putin initiated a comprehensive program in 2000 aimed at fostering socio-economic development in Russia, setting ambitious targets for the decade ahead.
2000: Putin Re-establishes Stronger Ties with Cuba
In the early 2000s, Putin took steps to re-establish and strengthen ties with Cuba under Fidel Castro's leadership.
2000: Putin's First Election as President of Russia
In 2000, Vladimir Putin was first elected as the President of Russia. This marked the beginning of his long tenure as the country's leader.
2000: Putin Co-authors Book on Judo
In 2000, Vladimir Putin co-authored a book in Russian entitled "Learn Judo with Vladimir Putin."
2000: Putin's First Presidential Election Campaign
In 2000, Vladimir Litvinenko, Putin's thesis supervisor, managed his first presidential election campaign in St. Petersburg.
2000: Start of Russian Arms Sales to Syria
From 2000 to 2010, Russia supplied arms to Syria, making Damascus one of its largest clients.
2000: Beginning of Putin's Reconstruction Efforts and Power Struggle with Oligarchs
From 2000 onwards, Putin initiated efforts to rebuild the struggling Russian economy, engaging in a power struggle with the Russian oligarchs.
February 2001: Implementation of Federal Law Replacing 1999 Decree
Putin signed a federal law in February 2001 that replaced the 1999 decree offering protection to Yeltsin and his family.
2001: Territorial Extension Claim in the Arctic
Putin's assertive stance in the Arctic, including the 2007 flag planting, stemmed from a territorial extension claim initiated in 2001. This claim signified Russia's ambition to expand its influence in the Arctic region.
2001: Putin Receives Numerous Civilian Honors
Since 2001, at least fifteen countries have awarded civilian honors to Vladimir Putin.
2001: Putin Cultivates Relationships with World Leaders Following 9/11 Attacks
In 2001, following the 9/11 attacks on the United States, Putin fostered positive relationships with U.S. President George W. Bush and various Western European leaders.
October 2002: Moscow Theater Hostage Crisis and Putin's Handling of the Situation
Despite international concern that the deaths of 130 hostages during the Moscow theater hostage crisis in October 2002 would damage Putin's popularity, he received record-high approval ratings after the siege ended. 83% of Russians indicated satisfaction with Putin and his handling of the crisis.
2002: Otto von Habsburg's Early Criticism of Putin
Otto von Habsburg, the last crown prince of Austria-Hungary and a former Member of the European Parliament, emerged as an early critic of Putin. In a 2002 newspaper interview, he expressed concerns about Putin, characterizing him as an "international threat."
March 2003: Alleged Birth of Elizaveta (Luiza Rozova)
Elizaveta, also known as Luiza Rozova, allegedly Putin's daughter with Svetlana Krivonogikh, was born in March 2003.
2003: Rose Revolution in Georgia
The Rose Revolution took place in Georgia in 2003.
2003: UK-Russia Relations Strained by Berezovsky Asylum
Relations between Russia and the United Kingdom became strained in 2003 when the UK granted political asylum to Boris Berezovsky, a former patron and oligarch connected to Putin.
2003: End of Putin's "Reform" Years
Putin's economic policy shifted away from the "reform" focus of his first term after 2003.
2003: Previous Peak in Putin's Favorability Among Americans
Prior to the 2017 surge, the last time Putin's favorability among Americans reached a comparable level was in 2003.
2003: Habsburg's Warnings About Putin
Otto von Habsburg continued his criticism of Putin in 2003, delivering speeches in which he labeled Putin as "cruel and oppressive."
2003: Russia Opposes US Invasion of Iraq, Relations with West Deteriorate
In 2003, Russia expressed strong opposition to the US-led invasion of Iraq, leading to increased tension and a noticeable deterioration in relations with the West. According to Russia scholar Stephen F. Cohen, this event coincided with a shift in the US mainstream media's narrative, aligning with the White House's stance and becoming increasingly critical of Putin.
2003: Chechnya Referendum and Gradual Stabilization
A referendum held in Chechnya in 2003 resulted in a new constitution that officially declared Chechnya as a part of Russia, although with granted autonomy. The region experienced gradual stabilization with the establishment of parliamentary elections and a regional government. Russia largely suppressed the Chechen rebel movement during the Second Chechen War. However, sporadic rebel attacks continued in the North Caucasus region.
March 2004: Putin's Re-election for Second Term
Putin won his second term as president in March 2004, receiving 71% of the vote.
September 2004: Beslan School Hostage Crisis
The tragic Beslan school hostage crisis unfolded from September 1st to 3rd in 2004, claiming the lives of over 330 individuals, including 186 children.
December 2004: Putin Criticizes Color Revolutions in Post-Soviet States
In December 2004, Putin criticized the series of "color revolutions" in post-Soviet states like Georgia, Ukraine, and Kyrgyzstan, arguing that they risked plunging the region into endless conflict.
2004: Start of Putin's "Statist" Years
Putin's second term, beginning in 2004, marked a transition to a more "statist" approach in his economic policy.
2004: Beslan School Siege
The 2004 Beslan school siege, a horrific terrorist attack in Russia, served as a point of comparison for the devastating Crocus City Hall attack in March 2024, highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
2004: Freedom House's Warning on Russia's Retreat from Freedom
In 2004, Freedom House issued a stark warning about Russia's "retreat from freedom," characterizing it as a low point not seen since 1989 when the country was still part of the Soviet Union.
2004: Elimination of Direct Elections for Regional Heads
In 2004, the direct election of regional governors by popular vote was abolished, replaced with a system where the president nominates candidates for approval by regional legislatures, diminishing local democratic participation.
2004: Putin's "Grand Bargain" with Oligarchs and Continued Reconstruction
By 2004, Putin achieved a "grand bargain" with the oligarchs, allowing them to maintain most of their power in exchange for their overt support and alignment with Putin's government. Putin continued his work to reconstruct the Russian economy during this period.
2004: Putin's Second Presidential Election Campaign
In 2004, Vladimir Litvinenko, Putin's thesis supervisor, again managed his presidential election campaign in St. Petersburg.
2004: Putin Co-authors Second Book on Judo
In 2004, Putin co-authored a book in English titled "Judo: History, Theory, Practice."
2004: Signing the Kyoto Protocol
In 2004, Putin signed the Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, due to Russia's economic downturn following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1990, the country's emissions were already below the 1990 baseline, exempting it from mandatory cuts.
2005: Russia Designated as "Not Free" by Freedom House
Since 2005, Freedom House has consistently listed Russia as "not free," indicating a decline in democratic freedoms and civil liberties under Putin's leadership.
2005: Venezuela Begins Major Arms Purchases from Russia
Starting in 2005, Venezuela initiated substantial purchases of military equipment from Russia, accumulating over \$4 billion worth of arms.
2005: Tulip Revolution in Kyrgyzstan
The Tulip Revolution took place in Kyrgyzstan in 2005.
2005: Putin's Assessment of the Soviet Union Collapse and Launch of National Priority Projects
Putin described the collapse of the Soviet Union as the "greatest geopolitical catastrophe of the Twentieth Century" in a 2005 Kremlin speech. He highlighted the detrimental impact of this collapse, noting the disintegration it caused within Russia itself and the decline in living standards. To address these challenges, he launched National Priority Projects focused on improving healthcare, education, housing, and agriculture in Russia.
2005: Formation of Paramilitary Groups
It's alleged that Putin orchestrated the formation of paramilitary groups loyal to himself and the United Russia party between 2005 and 2012, aiming to consolidate his power and counter potential challenges.
2005: Habsburg's Concerns About Putin
In 2005, Otto von Habsburg reiterated his concerns about Putin in another speech, describing him as a "stone-cold technocrat."
2005: Repayment of Soviet Union's Debts
By 2005, Russia successfully repaid all of the Soviet Union's outstanding debts, a significant financial achievement made possible by a fund established to manage oil revenue.
October 2006: Assassination of Anna Politkovskaya
On Putin's birthday, October 7, 2006, Anna Politkovskaya, a journalist who exposed corruption within the Russian army and its actions in Chechnya, was shot and killed in her apartment building's lobby. This incident sparked international condemnation, with accusations directed at Putin for failing to protect the independent media in Russia. Putin himself acknowledged that her death caused more problems for his government than her writing ever did.
2006: Strained UK-Russia Relations Intensify Following Litvinenko Poisoning
Further tensions arose in UK-Russia relations towards the end of 2006, following the death of former KGB and FSB officer Alexander Litvinenko in London. Litvinenko, who had become an MI6 agent in 2003, died from polonium poisoning.
2006: Putin's Reported Income
In 2006, Putin's reported income was approximately $152,000. Despite his position of power, his official income appeared modest.
2006: Industry Consolidation Program for Aircraft Production
Putin launched a program in 2006 to consolidate major aircraft manufacturing companies under the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) umbrella, seeking to streamline and enhance the industry's efficiency.
January 2007: Putin Advocates for a Democratic Multipolar World and Strengthening International Law
Putin, in a January 2007 interview, expressed Russia's support for a democratic multipolar world and emphasized the importance of strengthening international legal frameworks.
January 2007: Putin's Meeting with Angela Merkel and the Dog Incident
Two weeks after Russia halted oil supplies to Germany, Putin met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel at his Sochi residence in January 2007. He brought his black Labrador, Konni, into the meeting despite Merkel's known fear of dogs, stating "I'm sure it will behave itself," This caused an uproar among German media. Putin claimed he was unaware of Merkel's phobia when questioned about the incident in a 2016 interview, adding that he apologized when he found out. Merkel suggested that his actions were meant to project strength and masculinity, highlighting Russia's lack of political and economic achievements.
February 2007: Putin's Speech at the Munich Security Conference
In February 2007, Vladimir Putin delivered a speech at the Munich Security Conference where he expressed concerns about the United States' dominant position in geopolitics and its perceived disregard for promises made regarding NATO expansion in Eastern Europe.
February 2007: Putin Delivers "Munich Speech," Criticizing US Dominance in Global Relations
In February 2007, Putin delivered what became known as the "Munich Speech," where he criticized the United States for its perceived monopolistic control over global affairs and its excessive use of force in international relations. He argued that this approach undermined global security, making no one feel safe, and encouraged an arms race. NATO Secretary Jaap de Hoop Scheffer responded by calling the speech "disappointing and unhelpful."
May 2007: Promoting Religious Unity
In May 2007, Putin actively participated in promoting the Act of Canonical Communion, which restored relations between the Moscow-based Russian Orthodox Church and the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia. This act ended an 80-year schism, demonstrating Putin's role in fostering religious unity within the Russian Orthodox Church.
June 2007: Putin's High Approval Rating
In June 2007, Putin's approval rating reached 81%, positioning him as one of the world's most popular leaders.
June 2007: Putin Presents Counterproposal to US Missile Shield, Which is Declined
In June 2007, Putin presented a counterproposal to President George W. Bush regarding the planned US missile shield in Europe. However, the US declined the proposal, furthering the tension between the two nations.
July 2007: Russia Suspends Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe
In July 2007, Russia announced its suspension of the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe, citing concerns about NATO expansion and demanding concessions from NATO members.
August 2007: Asserting Territorial Claims in the Arctic
In August 2007, a Russian expedition planted a flag on the seabed at the North Pole as part of research related to Russia's territorial claims in the Arctic. This symbolic act demonstrated Putin's determination to assert Russian control over the region's resources and strategic importance.
September 2007: Putin Makes First Visit to Indonesia by a Russian Leader in Over 50 Years
Putin's visit to Indonesia in September 2007 marked the first time a Russian leader had visited the country in over five decades, signaling a renewed interest in strengthening bilateral relations.
September 2007: Putin's Nuclear-Capable Bomber Exercises
In September 2007, Putin initiated nuclear-capable bomber exercises near the United States, marking the first such instance since the dissolution of the USSR, signaling a resurgence of Russian military assertiveness on the global stage.
September 2007: Dissolution of the Russian Government
In September 2007, Putin dissolved the Russian government at the request of Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov, a move intended to provide Putin with greater flexibility in the lead-up to the parliamentary elections. Viktor Zubkov was appointed as the new prime minister.
October 2007: Putin's Visit to Iran for the Second Caspian Summit
In October 2007, Putin made a historic visit to Iran, marking the first visit of a Soviet or Russian leader since Stalin in 1943. During the Second Caspian Summit, Putin met with Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and affirmed the right of Caspian states to pursue peaceful nuclear programs.
December 2007: Russia Suspends Participation in Conventional Forces in Europe Treaty
In December 2007, Russia took the step of suspending its participation in the Conventional Forces in Europe treaty, signaling a further deterioration in its relationship with the West.
December 2007: Expansion of Russian Naval Power
In December 2007, Russia's Defense Minister announced a major navy sortie into the Mediterranean, the first since the Soviet era. This deployment, including the aircraft carrier Kuznetsov, signaled Putin's intention to reassert Russia's naval presence on the global stage.
December 2007: United Russia's Parliamentary Election Victory
In December 2007, the United Russia party, aligned with Putin's policies, secured a significant victory in the parliamentary elections, interpreted as a demonstration of popular support for Putin's leadership and political agenda.
2007: Putin on His Belief in God
When asked about his belief in God in 2007, Putin responded by saying that some things are better left unshared with the public.
2007: Sochi Wins Bid for 2014 Winter Olympics
In 2007, Putin successfully led the effort for Sochi to host the 2014 Winter Olympics, a first for Russia.
2007: Putin Makes Historic Visit to Indonesia
In 2007, Putin made a historic visit to Indonesia, the first by a Russian or Soviet leader in half a century, leading to an arms deal and strengthening bilateral relations.
2007: Diplomatic Expulsions Escalate UK-Russia Tensions
The crisis in UK-Russia relations persisted in 2007 with the expulsion of four Russian envoys due to Russia's refusal to extradite Andrei Lugovoi, a former KGB bodyguard, to face charges in Litvinenko's murder. In a reciprocal move, Russia expelled UK diplomats and implemented retaliatory measures.
2007: Putin's Economic Vision for Russia
Starting in 2007, Putin repeatedly expressed his belief that Russia would become one of the world's top five economies, highlighting his ambitions for the nation's economic growth.
2007: Putin Criticizes the United States in Munich Speech
Putin delivered a speech in 2007 in which he expressed criticism towards the United States.
2007: Official Declaration of Putin's Wealth
In 2007, during the legislative elections, Putin's declared wealth was approximately $280,000. This included a modest apartment, bank accounts, and other assets.
2007: Contradictory Claims About Putin's Wealth Emerge
In 2007, contradictory claims about Putin's wealth surfaced. Opposition figures and journalists alleged that he secretly held billions of dollars through stakes in various companies. Western intelligence agencies, however, reportedly couldn't find concrete evidence. These conflicting reports sparked debate and fueled suspicions about the extent of Putin's hidden wealth.
2007: Putin's Cultivated Public Image and "Be Like Putin" Campaign
In 2007, Putin's deliberate cultivation of a tough, outdoorsy, and sporty public image, often involving extreme sports and interactions with wild animals, was amplified by the tabloid Komsomolskaya Pravda. The publication featured a prominent shirtless photo of Putin vacationing in the Siberian mountains with the headline "Be Like Putin," solidifying this carefully crafted persona.
2007: Time Person of the Year
In 2007, Putin was recognized as Time Person of the Year, a testament to his global influence and impact.
2007: "Dissenters' Marches" and Police Response
Throughout 2007, the opposition group The Other Russia organized "Dissenters' Marches," resulting in police intervention and arrests as protesters attempted to defy warnings and breach police lines.
February 2008: Gazprom Employees Threaten Ukraine
During an address by Putin at the 15th anniversary celebration of Gazprom in February 2008, Gazprom employees issued threats to Ukraine, suggesting a potential disruption of gas flow.
February 2008: Putin Opposes Kosovo's Declaration of Independence, Warning of Destabilization of International Relations
Putin voiced his opposition to Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence from Serbia in February 2008, cautioning that this move could destabilize the entire system of international relations. He criticized the recognition of Kosovo's independence by major world powers, describing it as a dangerous precedent that would undermine the established international order.
April 2008: Rumors of Divorce and Engagement to Alina Kabaeva
In April 2008, rumors spread that Putin had divorced Lyudmila and was planning to marry Alina Kabaeva, an Olympic gold medalist and former rhythmic gymnast. However, the rumors were denied, and the newspaper that published the story was shut down shortly after.
April 2008: Putin's Address at the NATO Bucharest Summit
In April 2008, during the NATO Bucharest summit, Putin voiced his opposition to NATO's eastward expansion, perceiving it as a direct threat to Russia's national security and emphasizing that verbal assurances were insufficient to alleviate these concerns.
April 2008: Putin's Visit to Libya
In April 2008, Putin became the first Russian president to visit Libya, further expanding Russia's international relations.
May 2008: Putin Appointed Prime Minister
In May 2008, Putin, constitutionally barred from seeking a third consecutive presidential term, assumed the role of Prime Minister under the newly elected President Dmitry Medvedev, a strategic maneuver that allowed him to maintain his influence over Russian politics.
August 2008: Russia Intervenes in Georgia's South Ossetia Conflict
In August 2008, when Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili attempted to regain control over the separatist region of South Ossetia, the Georgian military was swiftly overpowered after Russian forces entered the conflict zone and subsequently expanded their operations into other areas of Georgia. Additionally, Russian forces, in conjunction with Abkhazian forces, initiated a second front in Georgia's other breakaway region of Abkhazia.
September 2008: Russia Sends Bombers to Venezuela for Training Flights
In September 2008, Russia dispatched Tupolev Tu-160 bombers to Venezuela to conduct training flights.
November 2008: Russia and Venezuela Hold Joint Naval Exercise in the Caribbean
Russia and Venezuela engaged in a joint naval exercise in the Caribbean in November 2008, further solidifying their military cooperation.
2008: Putin's Statements on Ukraine and NATO
In 2008, Putin allegedly warned that if Ukraine joined NATO, Russia might annex eastern Ukraine and Crimea. He also made disparaging remarks about Ukraine's statehood.
2008: Shift in Economic Policy Due to World Economic Crisis
The global economic crisis that began in 2008 significantly impacted Putin's economic policies, leading to adjustments and a focus on recovery.
2008: Kazan Wins Bid for 2013 Summer Universiade
In 2008, Kazan successfully won the bid to host the 2013 Summer Universiade.
2008: Abandonment of Socio-Economic Development Program
Despite initial ambitions, Putin's socio-economic development program, launched in 2000, was ultimately abandoned in 2008, having achieved only 30% of its intended goals.
2008: Putin's Second Premiership: Economic Crisis and Population Stabilization
Putin identified overcoming the global economic crisis and stabilizing Russia's population as key achievements of his second premiership, spanning from 2008 to 2011.
2008: Initiation of Military Reform
In 2008, Russia initiated a comprehensive military reform aimed at modernizing its armed forces and enhancing their effectiveness. This initiative, overseen by Putin, signaled a commitment to strengthening Russia's military capabilities.
2008: Extension of Presidential Terms
In 2008, shortly after Medvedev assumed the presidency, the duration of presidential terms was extended from four to six years, a change that came into effect with the 2012 election and had implications for Putin's future political prospects.
2009: Hillary Clinton Begins Tenure as U.S. Secretary of State
Hillary Clinton assumed the role of U.S. Secretary of State in 2009, a position she held until 2013.
2009: Putin Gifts Expensive Watches
In 2009, Putin was known to give away expensive watches worth thousands of dollars as gifts. These actions contrasted with his relatively modest official income, leading to speculation about his true wealth.
2009: Russia-Ukraine Gas Dispute
The 2009 Russia-Ukraine gas dispute occurred during Putin's second premiership, with Putin strategically leveraging Russia's control over gas supplies to exert influence on Ukraine.
2009: Global Economic Crisis
The global economic crisis of 2009 significantly impacted Russia, leading to a decline in public confidence.
December 2010: Russia Wins Bid to Host the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2018 FIFA World Cup
On December 2, 2010, Russia secured the rights to host the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time in Russian history.
2010: Putin's Remarks on Energy Alternatives
In 2010, Putin, during his second premiership, remarked at a German trade show that if his hosts rejected Russian natural gas and nuclear power, they could resort to heating with wood, implying the necessity of deforestation in Siberia, a statement that highlighted Russia's energy leverage and generated controversy.
2010: Planned Completion of Socio-Economic Development Program
Putin's socio-economic development program, launched in 2000, was initially intended to reach completion by 2010.
2010: End of Russian Arms Sales to Syria
After 10 years, Russia ceased selling arms to Syria in 2010.
September 2011: Medvedev Proposes Putin's Candidacy
In September 2011, during the United Russia Congress in Moscow, Medvedev formally proposed Putin's candidacy for the 2012 presidential election, an offer readily accepted by Putin, signaling a planned return to the presidency.
September 2011: Medvedev Announces Recommendation for Putin's Candidacy
During a United Russia party congress in September 2011, Medvedev publicly announced his recommendation for Putin as the party's presidential candidate, revealing a pre-arranged agreement that allowed Putin to seek a return to the presidency in 2012. This orchestrated transition was widely referred to in the media as "Rokirovka," drawing an analogy to the chess move "castling."
November 2011: Leaders of Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia Sign Agreement to Establish Eurasian Union
In November 2011, the presidents of Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia formalized an agreement to create the Eurasian Union, aiming for its establishment by 2015.
November 2011: Silvio Berlusconi Resigns as Prime Minister of Italy
In November 2011, Silvio Berlusconi resigned from his position as Prime Minister of Italy, but he maintained a close friendship with Putin, continuing to hold bilateral meetings.
December 2011: Protests Against Electoral Fraud
In December 2011, following parliamentary elections, large-scale protests erupted in Russia, fueled by allegations of electoral fraud. These protests, the largest during Putin's tenure, targeted Putin and United Russia, demanding the annulment of the election results and reflecting growing public dissent.
2011: Russian Protests
The period of 2011 to 2013 witnessed significant protests in Russia.
2011: Putin's Second Premiership: Economic Crisis and Population Stabilization
Putin identified overcoming the global economic crisis and stabilizing Russia's population as key achievements of his second premiership, spanning from 2008 to 2011.
2011: Establishment of All-Russia People's Front
The All-Russia People's Front, a political movement aimed at bolstering the Kremlin's ties with the Russian people, was formed in 2011. The movement's creation signaled a potential shift in Russia's political landscape and offered an alternative to the increasingly unpopular United Russia party.
2011: Russia Classified as "Authoritarian" by Economist Intelligence Unit
In 2011, the Economist Intelligence Unit reclassified Russia as "authoritarian," marking a significant shift from its previous classification as a "hybrid regime," which implied some semblance of democratic governance.
2011: Leaked Photos of "Putin's Palace"
In 2011, photos were leaked online that allegedly showed the interior of "Putin's Palace," the estate near Praskoveevka that was under construction.
2011: Recognition of Putin's Role in Russia's Recovery
In 2011, many Russians, including former Soviet Union leader Mikhail Gorbachev, acknowledged Putin's role in reviving Russia's fortunes, particularly after the turbulent Yeltsin years. While acknowledging limitations in democratic processes and media freedom under Putin's presidency, Gorbachev emphasized Putin's contribution to pulling Russia out of chaos. Chechen Republic head Ramzan Kadyrov, a Putin supporter, credited Putin with saving both the Chechen people and Russia.
2011: Putin Criticizes NATO Intervention in Libya
In 2011, Putin strongly criticized the NATO-led military intervention in Libya, characterizing the UN Security Council Resolution 1973 as "defective and flawed" and likening it to "medieval calls for crusades."
2011: Putin's Condemnation of Foreign Intervention in Libya
In 2011, Putin strongly condemned the foreign military intervention in Libya, criticizing the UN resolution as flawed and likening it to medieval calls for crusades. He also accused the US of orchestrating the "planned murder" of Muammar Gaddafi.
2011: Russia Boosts Relations with Vietnam
Russia strengthened its relations with Vietnam after 2011.
March 2012: Putin Wins 2012 Presidential Election
In March 2012, Putin secured victory in the first round of the Russian presidential election, garnering 63.6% of the vote. However, the election was marred by widespread accusations of vote-rigging, drawing criticism from opposition groups and international observers who pointed to procedural irregularities despite efforts to enhance transparency.
May 2012: Criticism of Restrictive Laws and Human Rights Practices
Following Putin's re-election in May 2012, concerns arose regarding Russia's human rights record, particularly the implementation of restrictive laws and the suppression of dissent. Organizations like Human Rights Watch criticized these measures, alleging harassment, intimidation, and imprisonment of political activists and critics.
May 2012: Putin's Presidential Inauguration and "May Decrees"
On May 7, 2012, Putin was inaugurated as President in the Kremlin. On his first day, he issued 14 presidential decrees, often termed "May Decrees," addressing a wide range of policy areas, including ambitious economic goals, education, housing, workforce development, relations with the European Union, and the defense industry, reflecting the priorities outlined in his campaign program.
June 2012: Putin's Opposition to Foreign Intervention in Syria
In June 2012, Putin publicly opposed any foreign intervention in the Syrian civil war, rejecting calls for Bashar al-Assad's resignation. He criticized previous NATO interventions and questioned their effectiveness.
August 2012: Critics Allege Putin Owns Multiple Residences
In August 2012, critics accused Putin of owning 20 villas and palaces, with many built during his time in power. This fueled controversy over his alleged lavish lifestyle, contrasting with his relatively modest declared income.
August 2012: Russia Joins World Trade Organization
Russia formally joined the World Trade Organization in August 2012, marking a significant step in its integration into the global economy.
2012: Introduction of "Foreign Agent" Legislation
The 2020 law expanded on legislation initially introduced in 2012, aiming to restrict the activities of organizations perceived as receiving foreign influence.
2012: Putin Promotes Conservative Policies and Think Tanks
Throughout his presidency and notably in 2012, Putin promoted conservative policies and collaborated with think tanks like the Izborsky Club, which stressed Russian nationalism and opposition to liberal ideas.
2012: Stricter Legislation Against LGBT Community
Throughout 2012, Putin and the United Russia party backed stricter legislation targeting the LGBT community. This legislation, enacted in cities such as Saint Petersburg, Archangelsk, and Novosibirsk, further fueled concerns about the government's stance on LGBT rights.
2012: Mass Protests Against Putin's Policies
The period following Putin's return to the presidency in 2012 was marked by widespread public protests, with citizens demonstrating against perceived electoral fraud, censorship, and the tightening of laws governing freedom of assembly.
2012: Putin Awarded Eighth Dan in Judo
Vladimir Putin was awarded the eighth dan in judo in 2012, becoming the first Russian to reach this level of achievement.
2012: Putin's Declared Income Increases
Putin declared a higher income of approximately $270,000 in 2012. However, his expensive watches and alleged hidden assets raised questions about the accuracy of his declared income.
2012: Putin and the Russian Orthodox Church
In 2012, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow endorsed Putin's election, signifying the close alliance between Putin and the Russian Orthodox Church, which had emerged as a respected institution after the Soviet collapse.
2012: Formation of Paramilitary Groups
It's alleged that Putin orchestrated the formation of paramilitary groups loyal to himself and the United Russia party between 2005 and 2012, aiming to consolidate his power and counter potential challenges.
2012: Putin's "Manual Management" Style
After reassuming the presidency in 2012, Putin's governing style was characterized as "manual management." This approach, as described by Swedish economist Anders Åslund, implied a highly centralized and personalized decision-making process where Putin exerted direct control, prioritizing financial stability based on the lessons learned from the 1998 financial crisis.
2012: Medvedev Announces Recommendation for Putin's Candidacy
During a United Russia party congress in September 2011, Medvedev publicly announced his recommendation for Putin as the party's presidential candidate, revealing a pre-arranged agreement that allowed Putin to seek a return to the presidency in 2012. This orchestrated transition was widely referred to in the media as "Rokirovka," drawing an analogy to the chess move "castling."
2012: Extension of Presidential Terms
In 2008, shortly after Medvedev assumed the presidency, the duration of presidential terms was extended from four to six years, a change that came into effect with the 2012 election and had implications for Putin's future political prospects.
2012: Crackdown on Liberal Media
Following Putin's return to the presidency in 2012, the crackdown extended to liberal media outlets that had previously enjoyed some degree of independence. This intensified control over the media landscape further restricted freedom of information and critical reporting.
2012: Putin Highlights Strong Ties with India
In 2012, Putin emphasized the strong strategic and diplomatic relationship between Russia and India in an article published in The Hindu newspaper.
2012: Birth of Putin's First Grandson
In 2012, Putin's first grandson was born through his daughter, Maria. This marked a new chapter in his family life.
2012: Publication of Putin's Biography by Masha Gessen
In 2012, Russian-American author Masha Gessen published a biography of Vladimir Putin, downplaying his role in the KGB and suggesting his work primarily involved collecting press clippings.
2012: Allegations of "Putin's Palace" Emerge
In 2012, reports surfaced of an extravagant mansion under construction near Praskoveevka, dubbed "Putin's Palace." Former business associate Sergei Kolesnikov alleged that the mansion, built on government land with lavish amenities, was intended for Putin's private use.
2012: Medvedev Proposes Putin's Candidacy
In September 2011, during the United Russia Congress in Moscow, Medvedev formally proposed Putin's candidacy for the 2012 presidential election, an offer readily accepted by Putin, signaling a planned return to the presidency.
January 2013: Putin's Approval Rating Declines
Putin's approval rating fell to 62% in January 2013, marking his lowest rating since 2000, coinciding with the 2011-2013 Russian protests.
June 2013: Russia Passes "Gay Propaganda" Law
In June 2013, the Russian State Duma adopted the controversial "gay propaganda" law, which prohibits the distribution of materials promoting "non-traditional sexual relations" to minors. The law sparked international criticism and accusations of discrimination against the LGBT community.
June 2013: Putin and Lyudmila Announce Separation
In June 2013, Vladimir Putin and his wife, Lyudmila, announced their separation, ending their marriage of 30 years.
June 2013: Putin Elected Head of All-Russia People's Front
In June 2013, Putin participated in a televised rally for the All-Russia People's Front and was elected as its leader. The movement, established in 2011, aimed to strengthen the Kremlin's connection with the Russian populace and potentially replace the declining United Russia party in the future.
September 2013: Putin's Op-Ed on Syria and American Exceptionalism
In September 2013, Putin wrote an op-ed for The New York Times, urging caution against US intervention in Syria and criticizing American exceptionalism.
2013: International Condemnation and Sanctions
Russia's invasion of Ukraine was met with widespread international condemnation and sanctions, including those directly targeting Putin. There were numerous calls for Putin to be held accountable for war crimes. The International Criminal Court (ICC) announced an investigation into potential war crimes in Ukraine dating back to late 2013. The US pledged support to the ICC in prosecuting Putin and others for war crimes related to the invasion.
2013: U.S.-Russia Relations Deteriorate Over Edward Snowden Asylum
In late 2013, relations between the United States and Russia worsened when the U.S. cancelled a summit, a first since 1960, after Putin granted asylum to Edward Snowden, who had leaked classified information from the NSA.
2013: Reporters Without Borders Ranks Russia Low on Freedom of the Press
In 2013, Reporters Without Borders ranked Russia 148 out of 179 countries in terms of freedom of the press, criticizing the crackdown on political opposition and lack of justice for murdered journalists.
2013: Putin Assures Non-Discrimination at Sochi Olympics
In 2013, Putin stated that gay athletes would not face discrimination at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.
2013: Acknowledging Economic Challenges
In 2013, Putin acknowledged that while Russia was among the five largest economies in terms of gross domestic product, it lagged behind other countries in areas like labor productivity, indicating ongoing economic challenges.
2013: Hillary Clinton Concludes Service as U.S. Secretary of State
Hillary Clinton's tenure as U.S. Secretary of State came to an end in 2013.
2013: Forbes' World's Most Powerful Individual
From 2013 to 2016, Forbes consistently ranked Putin as the World's Most Powerful Individual, underscoring his significant political and economic influence on the world stage.
2013: End of Economic Recovery Period
By 2013, the period of economic recovery following the 2008 world economic crisis had concluded.
February 2014: Russian Incursions into Crimea and Annexation
In February 2014, Russia initiated military operations into Ukrainian territories, culminating in the annexation of Crimea. Following the Euromaidan protests and the ousting of Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, Russian forces, operating without identifying insignia, seized strategic locations and infrastructure within Crimea. A referendum was held, resulting in Crimea's official annexation into the Russian Federation.
February 2014: Putin's Remarks on Ukraine and the West
After the annexation of Crimea, Putin claimed that parts of Ukraine belonged to Russia historically and criticized the West for orchestrating the ousting of Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych in February 2014, labeling the new Ukrainian government as nationalists and neo-Nazis.
March 2014: Russia Annexes Crimea
Following the Revolution of Dignity in Ukraine in March 2014, Russia annexed Crimea, justifying the action by claiming it had always been part of Russia.
March 2014: Putin Uses Kosovo Precedent to Justify Recognition of Crimea's Independence
In March 2014, Putin cited Kosovo's declaration of independence as a precedent to justify Russia's recognition of Crimea's independence, further escalating tensions with the West.
April 2014: Putin's Divorce is Finalized
In April 2014, Putin's divorce from Lyudmila was officially finalized, confirming the end of their marriage.
July 2014: Yukos Shareholders Awarded Compensation by Permanent Arbitration Court
In July 2014, shareholders of Yukos oil and gas company were granted $50 billion in compensation by the Permanent Arbitration Court in The Hague.
July 2014: Putin Threatens Use of Force to Protect Russian Speakers
In July 2014, amidst a Russian-backed insurgency in Eastern Ukraine, Putin declared his readiness to employ Russia's full military capacity, including measures allowed under international humanitarian law and self-defense, to safeguard Russian speakers outside of Russia.
August 2014: Putin Claims Russians and Ukrainians are "Practically One People"
Putin asserted in August 2014 that Russians and Ukrainians are essentially one people, despite potential disagreements regarding their shared history.
August 2014: Russian Military Vehicles Cross into Donetsk Oblast
In August 2014, amidst escalating tensions in Ukraine, Russian military vehicles breached the Ukrainian border into the Donetsk Oblast. This incursion by Russian military forces played a critical role in the defeat of Ukrainian forces in the following month, further solidifying Russia's influence in the conflict.
August 2014: Putin's Approval Rating Surges Following Sanctions
Putin's approval rating soared to 87% in August 2014 following the imposition of EU and US sanctions on Russian officials in response to the Ukraine crisis.
October 2014: Putin Addresses Russian Security Concerns at Valdai Discussion Club
During the Valdai International Discussion Club in Sochi in October 2014, Putin addressed Russia's security concerns on a global stage. This event highlighted Putin's efforts to articulate and defend Russia's geopolitical interests amidst escalating tensions with the West.
November 2014: Intensive Troop and Equipment Movement into Eastern Ukraine Reported
The Ukrainian military reported a significant surge in troop and equipment movements from Russia into separatist-controlled regions of eastern Ukraine in November 2014. The OSCE confirmed these observations, adding that they witnessed convoys of heavy weaponry and tanks, lacking insignia, operating within the territory held by the Donetsk People's Republic.
2014: Russia Suspended from G8 Due to Crimea Annexation
In 2014, Russia was suspended from the G8 group as a consequence of its annexation of Crimea.
2014: Impact of Russo-Ukrainian War on Economic Policy
The outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian war in 2014, coupled with Russia's increasing isolation from the global economy, shaped a new phase of economic policy focused on managing the consequences of these events and navigating economic stagnation.
2014: Economic Challenges and International Recognition
In 2014, Putin signed a deal to supply China with 38 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, marking a significant economic partnership. However, the same year saw the Russian ruble collapse, triggering a financial crisis attributed to declining oil prices and international sanctions. Despite the economic downturn, Putin was named Person of the Year by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, highlighting concerns about corruption and organized crime during his leadership.
2014: Sochi Hosts the Winter Olympics
The city of Sochi hosted the Winter Olympics in 2014.
2014: Russia Agrees to Forgive Uzbek Debt
During another meeting in 2014, Russia decided to write off Uzbekistan's debt, further strengthening their bilateral ties.
2014: Australia Condemns Russia's Actions in Ukraine
During the 2014 G20 Brisbane summit, the Abbott government of Australia strongly criticized Putin's use of military force in Ukraine, labeling it as "bullying" and "utterly unacceptable."
2014: Abbott Vows to Confront Putin Over MH17 Downing
Amidst calls to exclude Putin from the 2014 G20 Summit following the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight 17 (MH17) by Russian-backed rebels, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott declared his intention to directly challenge Putin over the incident, which resulted in the deaths of 38 Australians. Putin denied any responsibility for the tragedy.
2014: Putin Receives Eighth-Degree Black Belt in Karate
In 2014, Vladimir Putin was awarded an eighth-degree black belt in karate, adding to his martial arts accomplishments.
2014: Kissinger's Defense of Putin and Krenz's Perspective
In 2014, former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger argued that the West had unfairly demonized Putin. Egon Krenz, former leader of East Germany, asserted that the Cold War had never truly ended and praised Putin for his leadership, contrasting him favorably with previous Russian leaders like Gorbachev and Yeltsin.
2014: Putin Addresses International Concerns About "Gay Propaganda" Law
In 2014, in response to mounting international pressure concerning Russia's "gay propaganda" law, Putin maintained that the law aimed to protect children from pedophilia and homosexuality. He also urged homosexual visitors attending the 2014 Winter Olympics to refrain from promoting their "lifestyle" to children, while denying any professional or social discrimination against homosexuals in Russia.
2014: Konni, Putin's Dog, Passes Away
Konni, one of Putin's dogs gifted to him by a world leader, passed away in 2014.
January 2015: Eurasian Union Established
The Eurasian Union was established on January 1, 2015, as per the agreement signed in 2011.
February 2015: Putin Ranked as World's Most Popular Politician
Based on domestic polling, Putin was recognized as the world's most popular politician in February 2015.
February 2015: John Kornblum's Commentary on Putin
In February 2015, former U.S. Ambassador to Germany John Kornblum provided his perspective on Putin in an article published in the Wall Street Journal.
June 2015: Putin's Approval Rating Reaches All-Time High
In June 2015, Putin's approval rating climbed to an unprecedented 89%. Observers attributed this to rising living standards and Russia's reemergence on the global stage under his leadership.
June 2015: Putin Asserts Russia's Lack of Intention to Attack NATO
In June 2015, Putin publicly stated that Russia had no plans to initiate an attack against NATO.
July 2015: Putin's Shift in Foreign Policy: From State-Driven to Offensive
In July 2015, pro-Russian academic Andrei Tsygankov suggested that the international community perceived Putin's annexation of Crimea as a sign of a radical change in Russian foreign policy. This shift was interpreted as a move away from a state-driven approach towards a more aggressive stance aimed at restoring Russia's sphere of influence and countering Western expansion.
August 2015: OSCE Reports on Russian Military Fatalities and Intimidation of Human Rights Workers
By August 2015, the OSCE had identified over 21 vehicles bearing Russian military codes signifying soldiers killed in action in Ukraine. Reports emerged, as per The Moscow Times, that Russia was engaging in efforts to suppress information and intimidate human rights advocates who attempted to expose and discuss the deaths of Russian soldiers involved in the conflict.
September 2015: Russia Intervenes in Syrian Civil War
In September 2015, upon a formal request for military assistance from the Syrian government, Putin authorized Russian military intervention in the Syrian civil war. This marked a significant escalation of Russia's involvement in the Middle East and a decisive effort to bolster the embattled Syrian regime.
October 2015: Redeployment of Russian Elite Units from Ukraine to Syria
In October 2015, The Washington Post reported that Russia had initiated the redeployment of some of its elite military units from Ukraine to Syria, signaling a strategic shift in military focus to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime.
December 2015: Putin Admits to Russian Military Intelligence Operations in Ukraine
Putin acknowledged in December 2015 that Russian military intelligence officers were actively engaged in operations within Ukraine, marking a rare admission of Russia's direct involvement in the ongoing conflict.
December 2015: Putin Acknowledges Distinct Ukrainian Culture
In December 2015, Putin acknowledged the independent origins of Ukrainian culture and literature, seemingly contradicting his previous statements about the unity of the Russian and Ukrainian peoples.
2015: Scholarly Consensus on Russia's Lack of Democracy
By 2015, a consensus had emerged among political scientists, including Larry Diamond, that Russia under Putin's leadership could no longer be considered a democracy.
2015: UK Launches Public Inquiry into Litvinenko's Death
The British government initiated a public inquiry in 2015 to investigate the death of Alexander Litvinenko, with former British High Court judge Robert Owen presiding over the inquiry.
2015: Putin's Increased Support for Assad in Syria
In 2015, Putin strengthened his support for Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria, mobilizing military support.
2015: Time's Most Influential People List
In 2015, Putin secured the top position on Time's Most Influential People List, highlighting his continued global prominence.
2015: Criticism of Putin as a "Dictator" and Exploiter of Russia
In 2015, Putin faced criticism from various figures, including political opponent Garry Kasparov, who labeled him a "dictator." Opposition politician Boris Nemtsov accused Putin of turning Russia into a "raw materials colony" for China, highlighting concerns about economic exploitation under his leadership.
2015: Kabaeva Gives Birth to a Child, Allegedly Putin's
In 2015, Alina Kabaeva reportedly gave birth to a child, rumored to be fathered by Vladimir Putin. These reports were initially denied but continued to fuel speculation about their relationship.
2015: Levada Center's Statement on Russian Poll Results
In 2015, the Levada Center, a Russian independent polling and sociological research organization, cautioned against comparing Russian poll results to those in democratic states due to the lack of genuine political competition in Russia. The center highlighted the influence of state-controlled media in shaping public opinion and promoting those in power.
January 2016: Putin's Explanation of the Dog Incident
During an interview in January 2016, Putin addressed the 2007 incident with Angela Merkel and his dog, stating that he was unaware of her phobia and apologized when he learned about it.
January 2016: Owen Report Implicates Putin in Litvinenko's Murder
The Owen report, released on January 21, 2016, concluded that "The FSB operation to kill Mr. Litvinenko was probably approved by Mr Patrushev and also by President Putin." The report, stemming from a public inquiry into Litvinenko's death, suggested several potential motives for the murder, including Litvinenko's public statements alleging the FSB's involvement in mass killings, as well as what was described as "undoubtedly a personal dimension to the antagonism" between Putin and Litvinenko.
March 2016: Putin Declares Mission in Syria "Largely Accomplished"
In March 2016, Putin proclaimed that the objectives set for the Russian military in Syria had been "largely accomplished" and ordered a partial withdrawal of Russian forces from the country. Despite this announcement, Russian military personnel remained actively involved in supporting the Syrian government, signifying a continued commitment to the Syrian conflict.
April 2016: Panama Papers Leak Raises Questions About Putin's Associates
In April 2016, the Panama Papers leak, which exposed offshore financial dealings, revealed that close associates of Putin owned offshore companies worth billions of dollars. While Putin's name wasn't directly linked, the revelation raised concerns about his potential involvement in or benefit from these hidden assets.
November 2016: Putin Congratulates Donald Trump on U.S. Presidential Victory
Putin extended his congratulations to Donald Trump upon his victory as the 45th president of the United States in November 2016.
December 2016: U.S. Intelligence Alleges Putin's Involvement in Election Interference
In December 2016, U.S. intelligence officials, led by James Clapper, asserted that Putin had authorized email hacking and cyber attacks during the U.S. election, targeting Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign. Putin's spokesperson denied these allegations.
December 2016: Putin Denies Russian Interference in U.S. Election
Putin denied any Russian involvement in the U.S. election in December 2016, contradicting the growing body of evidence and intelligence assessments suggesting otherwise. This marked the beginning of a pattern of denials and obfuscation regarding Russia's role in the election interference.
2016: Navalny's Criticism of Putin as "Tsar of Corruption"
In 2016, opposition activist and blogger Alexei Navalny condemned Putin as the "Tsar of corruption," alleging widespread corruption within his regime.
2016: Forbes' World's Most Powerful Individual
Putin continued to hold the title of World's Most Powerful Individual according to Forbes in 2016, solidifying his dominance in global affairs.
2016: Putin Offers Alternative Explanations for Election Interference
In 2016, facing increasing evidence of Russian interference in the U.S. election, Putin offered alternative explanations, suggesting that "patriotically minded" Russian hackers or individuals with Russian citizenship but of other ethnicities could be responsible, deflecting direct blame from the Russian government.
2016: Relationship with the Russian Jewish Community
In 2016, Putin's relationship with the Russian Jewish community was highlighted by praise from figures like Ronald S. Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress. Putin was recognized for fostering an environment where Jews felt welcome and secure in Russia.
2016: Russia Strengthens Ties with the Philippines
In 2016, Putin forged closer bilateral ties with Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte, boosting relations between Russia and the Philippines.
2016: Criticism of Religious Freedom Restrictions
In 2016, Putin faced criticism from human rights organizations and religious freedom advocates regarding restrictions on religious freedom in Russia. These criticisms stemmed from the passage of legislation prohibiting missionary activity and the repression of nonviolent religious minority groups under anti-extremism laws.
2016: Income Growth Under Putin Administration
From 2000 to 2016, during Putin's leadership, Russia experienced a significant increase in income levels, measured in US dollar terms, driven by a commodities boom and favorable oil prices.
2016: Decline in Public Confidence in the Russian Economy
Public confidence in the Russian economy plummeted in 2016, reaching levels comparable to those during the 2009 global economic crisis.
January 2017: Trump Assumes Office, U.S.-Russia Relations Continue to Deteriorate
Following Donald Trump's inauguration as U.S. president in January 2017, Putin noted that relations between the United States and Russia, already at their lowest point since the Cold War, had continued to worsen.
January 2017: U.S. Intelligence Assesses Putin's Role in Election Interference
In January 2017, a U.S. intelligence assessment asserted a high degree of confidence that Putin personally directed an influence campaign targeting the 2016 U.S. presidential election. This campaign aimed to damage Hillary Clinton's candidacy and subsequently exhibited a preference for Donald Trump's victory.
February 2017: Putin's Favorability in the U.S. Rises After Trump's Election
In February 2017, a Gallup poll showed a rise in Putin's favorability among Americans, reaching its highest point since 2003. This increase coincided with the election of Donald Trump as U.S. president.
March 2017: Putin Denies Russian Interference in U.S. Election
Putin reiterated his denial of Russian interference in the U.S. election in March 2017, despite mounting pressure from international investigations and intelligence reports. His continued denials further fueled tensions between Russia and the United States.
June 2017: Putin Denies Russian Interference in U.S. Election
Putin once again denied any Russian interference in the U.S. election in June 2017, maintaining his stance amidst increasing scrutiny from the international community and ongoing investigations into Russia's actions.
July 2017: Putin Denies Russian Interference in U.S. Election
Putin repeated his denials of Russian interference in the U.S. election in July 2017, consistent with his previous statements despite accumulating evidence and international condemnation.
2017: Putin's Interview with Oliver Stone
In 2017, during an interview with Oliver Stone, Putin confirmed his 1991 resignation from the KGB, citing his opposition to the coup against Gorbachev as the reason for his departure.
2017: Russia Hosts FIFA Confederations Cup
Russia successfully hosted the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2017.
2017: Birth of Putin's Second Grandson and Alleged Granddaughter
Putin's second grandson was born in 2017, again through his daughter, Maria. Additionally, it was reported that he also had a granddaughter born in the same year, this time through his daughter, Katerina. These additions to his family further solidified his role as a grandfather.
2017: Putin's Popularity in Non-Western Countries
Putin enjoyed high approval ratings in certain non-Western countries like Vietnam, where his approval reached 89% in 2017.
2017: Putin Criticizes Violence Against Rohingya Minorities
Putin criticized the violence against Rohingya minorities in Myanmar in 2017.
2017: Russian PMCs in Central African Republic
In 2017, Putin deployed Russian private military companies (PMCs) to support the Touadéra regime in the Central African Republic Civil War, securing a permanent military presence for Russia.
2017: Public Dissatisfaction with Putin's Handling of Corruption
A 2017 Newsweek report revealed a poll indicating that 67% of Russians held Putin personally accountable for high-level corruption, highlighting widespread dissatisfaction with his performance in tackling the issue.
March 2018: UK Accuses Russia of Attempted Murder of Sergei Skripal
In March 2018, former double agent Sergei Skripal was poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent in Salisbury. The British government formally accused the Russian state of attempted murder, an allegation that Russia denied. Following the expulsion of 23 Russian diplomats by the UK, British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson stated on March 16 that it was "overwhelmingly likely" that Putin had personally ordered Skripal's poisoning. Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, characterized the accusation as "shocking and unpardonable diplomatic misconduct."
May 2018: Putin Wins Fourth Presidential Term and Inaugurates Crimean Bridge
In May 2018, Putin secured victory in the Russian presidential election, securing over 76% of the vote and commencing his fourth term, which is set to conclude in 2024. He also participated in the inauguration of the Crimean Bridge, a major infrastructure project symbolizing Russia's control over the annexed peninsula.
June 2018: Putin Inaugurates 21st FIFA World Cup in Russia
In June 2018, Putin presided over the opening ceremony of the 21st FIFA World Cup, hosted by Russia for the first time. This event showcased Russia's ability to host a major international sporting event and served as a moment of national pride.
July 2018: CIA Source Reveals Putin's Direct Involvement in Election Interference
In July 2018, The New York Times published a report revealing that the CIA had cultivated a Russian source who had attained a position of proximity to Putin. This source provided crucial information in 2016 confirming Putin's direct involvement in the election interference operation.
October 2018: Putin's "Martyrs" Comment on Nuclear War
In October 2018, Putin made a controversial statement suggesting that Russians would "go to Heaven as martyrs" in the event of a nuclear war, asserting that Russia would only utilize nuclear weapons in retaliation. This statement raised concerns about his stance on nuclear warfare and its potential consequences.
October 2018: Russians Hold Putin Accountable for National Problems
In October 2018, two-thirds of Russians surveyed acknowledged Putin's full responsibility for the country's problems, suggesting a shift in public perception and declining faith in the traditional justification of blaming lower-ranking officials.
December 2018: Ukrainian Orthodox Church Gains Independence, Experts Suggest Putin's Policy Backfired
The Ukrainian Orthodox Church achieved autocephaly in December 2018, leading to a schism with the Russian Orthodox Church. Many experts concluded that this event, combined with a cautious approach towards Russia in other post-Soviet republics, demonstrated a significant setback for Putin's policy of forceful engagement in the region. They argued that he had "annexed Crimea, but lost Ukraine."
2018: Putin's Possible Consideration of Taxi Driving
Putin mentioned in 2018 and 2021 that he might have contemplated working as a private taxi driver for additional income during a period of economic uncertainty.
2018: Allegations of Sensory Room in Putin's Residence
In 2018, the Russian political magazine Sobesednik alleged that Putin had a sensory room installed in his private residence in the Novgorod Oblast.
2018: Forbes' Assessment of Putin's Actions as Dictatorial
In 2018, following the jailing of anti-corruption blogger and activist Alexei Navalny, Forbes characterized Putin's actions as those of a dictator, highlighting the increasing use of force and repression to maintain power in the face of declining public support.
2018: Second Most Powerful Individual by Forbes
In 2018, Forbes ranked Putin as the second most powerful individual globally, indicating a slight shift in his global standing but still recognizing his considerable influence.
2018: Russia Hosts FIFA World Cup
Russia hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2018.
January 2019: Putin's Trustworthiness Hits Historic Low
In January 2019, Putin's trustworthiness among Russians plunged to a then-historic low of 33%.
April 2019: Gallup Poll Reveals Record Number of Russians Willing to Emigrate
An April 2019 Gallup poll revealed a record 20% of Russians were prepared to permanently emigrate from the country. This sentiment was particularly pronounced among the younger generation (17-25 age group), who felt alienated from the country's aging leadership, Soviet-era rhetoric, and nepotistic practices.
September 2019: Putin's Administration Interferes with Regional Elections
Putin's administration orchestrated interference in Russia's nationwide regional elections in September 2019, manipulating the electoral process by systematically removing all opposition candidates. This action was intended to guarantee a victory for the ruling United Russia party but sparked significant public outcry, leading to widespread protests demanding democratic reforms and resulting in mass arrests and instances of police brutality.
September 2019: Russia and Mongolia Sign Treaty on Friendship
In September 2019, Putin and his Mongolian counterpart signed a permanent treaty on friendship, strengthening trade and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
October 2019: First Russia-Africa Summit
In October 2019, Putin co-hosted the first Russia-Africa Summit with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Sochi, Russia. The summit saw the participation of 43 African heads of state and government.
October 2019: Putin's Visit to the United Arab Emirates and Agreements with Abu Dhabi
In October 2019, Putin visited the United Arab Emirates and secured six agreements with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed. These included shared investments between Russian and Emirati sovereign wealth funds, as well as deals in energy, health, and advanced technology sectors, exceeding $1.3 billion.
2019: Launch of Power of Siberia
In 2019, the Power of Siberia project, a massive natural gas pipeline transporting gas to China, was launched. Initiated by Putin, it represents a significant long-term economic endeavor.
2019: Kabaeva Reportedly Gives Birth to Twin Sons
Alina Kabaeva reportedly gave birth to twin sons in 2019. While initial reports suggested twins, later information from Swiss media, citing the couple's gynecologist, stated she gave birth to a boy on both occasions.
January 2020: Appointment of Mikhail Mishustin as Prime Minister
In January 2020, Putin nominated Mikhail Mishustin, the head of Russia's Federal Tax Service, for the position of Prime Minister. Mishustin was confirmed by the State Duma and appointed by Putin. This was the first time a prime minister was confirmed without any votes against.
January 2020: Resignation of Medvedev Government and Proposed Constitutional Amendments
In January 2020, Dmitry Medvedev and his government resigned after Putin's address to the Federal Assembly. Putin proposed significant constitutional amendments that could extend his political power beyond his presidency. Putin suggested Medvedev take the newly created position of deputy chairman of the Security Council.
March 2020: Formation of Working Group on Coronavirus
In March 2020, Putin instructed the formation of a Working Group of the State Council to combat the spread of the coronavirus, appointing Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin as its head.
March 2020: Aid to Italy and Remote Work Amidst Pandemic
In March 2020, Putin arranged for the Russian army to send medical aid to Italy, which was severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Putin also began working remotely from his office at Novo-Ogaryovo.
April 2020: Extension of Non-Working Period and Criticism of Pandemic Handling
In April 2020, Putin extended the non-working period in Russia until April 30th. Putin compared Russia's fight against COVID-19 to its historical battles with invaders. A poll indicated that 48% of Russians disapproved of Putin's handling of the pandemic, with criticisms of his isolation and lack of leadership.
May 2020: Putin's Approval Rating During COVID-19 Crisis
During the COVID-19 crisis in May 2020, Putin's approval rating stood at 68% in closed-question polls but dropped to 27% in open-question polls where respondents could freely name politicians they trusted. This discrepancy was attributed to continued economic stagnation and an apathetic response to the pandemic in Russia.
June 2020: Putin Publishes Essay Challenging Western Views on World War II
In June 2020, The National Interest published a lengthy essay by Putin titled "The Real Lessons of the 75th Anniversary of World War II." In this essay, Putin disputed the Western historical perspective on the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact as the trigger for World War II, arguing that the Munich Agreement marked the actual commencement of the war.
June 2020: Increase in Political Prisoners
By June 2020, the number of political prisoners in Russia had increased, raising concerns about the suppression of political opposition and dissent. The Memorial Human Rights Center reported 380 political prisoners, highlighting the ongoing challenges to human rights and freedom of expression under Putin's leadership.
July 2020: Constitutional Amendments Allowing for Extended Rule
In July 2020, Putin signed an order implementing amendments to the Russian Constitution, enabling him to run for two additional six-year terms. These amendments came into effect on July 4, 2020.
July 2020: Protests in Khabarovsk Krai
Protests arose in the Khabarovsk Krai in 2020 and 2021, showing support for the arrested regional governor Sergei Furgal. These protests increasingly turned anti-Putin over time. A poll in July 2020 showed that 45% of Russians supported these protests.
September 2020: Government Support Package for Aircraft Industry
In September 2020, the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) announced a substantial government support package, representing the largest investment in the aircraft industry since the Soviet era. This funding aimed to address debt obligations and facilitate restructuring within the industry.
November 2020: Allegations of Another Daughter, Elizaveta
In November 2020, an investigation alleged that Putin had another daughter named Elizaveta, also known as Luiza Rozova, born in March 2003, with Svetlana Krivonogikh.
December 2020: Lifetime Immunity for Ex-Presidents
Putin signed a bill in December 2020 that granted lifetime immunity from prosecution to former Russian presidents.
December 2020: Generational Divide in Putin's Support
In December 2020, a generational divide emerged in Russia regarding the perception of Putin's rule. Younger Russians, aged 18-24, exhibited significantly lower support for Putin at only 20%, compared to older generations who were more inclined to accept the narrative propagated by state-controlled media.
2020: Discussions with Japan on Territorial Disputes
Despite frequent meetings between Putin and former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to discuss territorial disputes and potential infrastructure projects, no agreements were reached before Abe's resignation in 2020.
2020: Journalist Catherine Belton's Claims about Putin's KGB Activities
Journalist Catherine Belton, in her 2020 book, contradicted Gessen's account. Belton suggested that Putin's seemingly insignificant role in the KGB was a cover for his involvement in supporting the Red Army Faction, a terrorist group.
2020: Putin Continues Election Interference Attempts in 2020 U.S. Presidential Election
Putin continued similar attempts to interfere in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, demonstrating a persistent pattern of attempting to influence democratic processes in other countries. This continued interference solidified the view of Russia as a threat to electoral integrity in Western democracies.
2020: Putin Praises Jair Bolsonaro's Leadership
In 2020, Putin commended Jair Bolsonaro's leadership qualities, praising his focus on the interests of his people and country. Political scientist Oliver Stuenkel observed that right-wing populists in Brazil perceive Putin as a figure who opposes "woke" ideology, which aligns with Bolsonaro's stance. Putin's image as a strongman also resonates with Bolsonaro, who aspires to concentrate power.
2020: Putin's Stance on Abortion
In 2020, Putin expressed support for reducing abortions but not outright prohibition, differing from the Russian Orthodox Church's view.
2020: Constitutional Amendment Referencing God
In 2020, Putin oversaw amendments to the Constitution of Russia, including a constitutional reference to God, marking a significant change with potential implications for the relationship between religion and state.
2020: Expansion of "Foreign Agent" Legislation
In 2020, Putin signed a law expanding the "foreign agent" legislation, originally adopted in 2012. This legislation allowed for labeling individuals and organizations receiving foreign funding as "foreign agents." Critics viewed this as a tool to stifle dissent and limit the activities of civil society groups.
2020: Constitutional Amendment on Marriage
In 2020, Putin supported a successful constitutional referendum that defined marriage as between one man and one woman.
January 2021: Navalny's Investigation into "Putin's Palace"
In January 2021, Alexei Navalny and the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) published an investigation accusing Putin of using fraudulently obtained funds to build the estate near Praskoveevka. Navalny's investigation alleged the estate was 39 times the size of Monaco and cost over 1.35 billion USD, calling it "the world's biggest bribe."
May 2021: Putin's Electoral Support in Moscow and Beyond
In May 2021, polling revealed that 33% of Moscow respondents and 40% of respondents outside Moscow would vote for Putin in a hypothetical weekend election.
June 2021: Vaccination and Self-Isolation
In June 2021, Putin announced his full vaccination with the Sputnik V vaccine. While emphasizing the voluntary nature of vaccination, he suggested mandatory vaccination for some professions to slow the spread of COVID-19. In September 2021, Putin went into self-isolation after individuals in his inner circle tested positive for the virus.
July 2021: Publication of Essay on Russian and Ukrainian Unity
In July 2021, Putin published an essay titled "On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians." This essay argued that Belarusians, Ukrainians, and Russians should be part of a united "Russian world" and are "one people." It suggested that external forces have always aimed to undermine their unity. The essay denied Ukraine's existence as an independent nation.
July 2021: Putin Publishes Article on "Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians," Declares Hostile Ukrainian State Comparable to "Weapons of Mass Destruction"
In July 2021, Putin wrote and published an extensive article titled "On the Historical Unity of Russians and Ukrainians," revisiting his previous claims and asserting that the creation of a Ukrainian state hostile to Moscow was equivalent in impact to the use of weapons of mass destruction against Russia. This article became mandatory reading for military and political training within the Russian Armed Forces.
October 2021: Survey on Trust in Putin
An October 2021 survey indicated that 53% of respondents expressed trust in Putin.
October 2021: Putin Acknowledges Strong Ties with Israel
In October 2021, during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Putin highlighted the "unique bond" between Russia and Israel.
November 2021: NATO Enlargement as "Red Line"
In November 2021, Putin stated that NATO expansion into Ukraine was a "red line" for Russia. The Kremlin denied plans to invade Ukraine, with Putin dismissing such concerns as "alarmist."
November 2021: The Economist's Observation of Putin's Shift to Dictatorship
In November 2021, The Economist noted a significant shift in Putin's rule, observing a transition from autocracy to dictatorship, signifying a further erosion of democratic norms and principles.
November 2021: Burns and Putin Meet
In November 2021, William Burns, then the U.S. ambassador to Russia, met personally with Vladimir Putin.
November 2021: Distrust in Putin Contributes to Vaccine Hesitancy
Polls conducted in November 2021 following the underwhelming Russian COVID-19 vaccination campaign indicated that distrust in Putin played a significant role in vaccine hesitancy. Regional polls revealed particularly low vaccination rates (20-30%) in the Volga Federal District, highlighting the impact of public distrust.
2021: Putin's Reiteration of Possible Taxi Driving Consideration
Putin again hinted in 2021 that he had considered becoming a taxi driver for supplementary income, highlighting a period of potential financial difficulty in his life.
2021: Russia Pledges to Boost Ties with Myanmar's Military Regime
Following the 2021 coup d'état in Myanmar, Russia pledged to strengthen its ties with the Myanmar military regime.
2021: Protests in Khabarovsk Krai
Protests arose in the Khabarovsk Krai in 2020 and 2021, showing support for the arrested regional governor Sergei Furgal. These protests increasingly turned anti-Putin over time. A poll in July 2020 showed that 45% of Russians supported these protests.
January 2022: Meeting with Iranian President
In January 2022, Putin met with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to prepare for a 20-year deal between their countries.
February 2022: Forced Deportation of Ukrainian Children
Since February 2022, a program of forced deportations of Ukrainian children to Russia from Russian-controlled areas of eastern Ukraine has been in operation, drawing international condemnation. While Russia has claimed these actions are humanitarian efforts to protect vulnerable children caught in the conflict, this justification is widely disputed.
February 2022: "Long Process" War and Conditions for Peace Talks
Putin acknowledged in December 2022 that the war in Ukraine could be a "long process." The Russo-Ukrainian War resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties since February 2022. Putin stated in January 2023 that peace talks with Ukraine depended on recognizing Russia's sovereignty over the annexed territories.
February 2022: Public Support for "Special Military Operation" in Ukraine
In February 2022, a survey by the independent research group Russian Field revealed that 59% of respondents supported the "special military operation" in Ukraine. However, among the 18-to-24-year-old demographic, only 29% expressed support.
February 2022: Recognition of Separatist Republics and Address on Ukraine
In February 2022, Putin signed a decree recognizing the two self-proclaimed separatist republics in Donbas as independent and delivered an address on the situation in Ukraine.
March 2022: Putin's Approval Rating and Public Sentiment Amidst War Censorship
In March 2022, Putin's approval rating surged to 83% from 71% in February, likely influenced by the tendency for public rallying around leaders during wartime. However, experts cautioned that these figures might not accurately represent public sentiment due to the Russian 2022 war censorship laws prohibiting the dissemination of "fake information" about the military, leading to fear and reluctance among respondents to express their true opinions.
March 2022: Mixed Public Opinions on "Special Military Operation" in Ukraine
In March 2022, Radio Liberty conducted polls that indicated 71% of Russians supported the "special military operation" in Ukraine. These polls contrasted with surveys showing overwhelming Ukrainian opposition to the invasion and Putin.
March 2022: Putin Removed from International Judo Federation Positions
In March 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin was removed from all his positions within the International Judo Federation (IJF).
April 2022: Speculation on Putin's Health and Parkinson's Disease
In April 2022, tabloid newspaper The Sun speculated, based on video footage, that Putin may have Parkinson's disease. These claims were rejected by the Kremlin and medical professionals, who stressed the impossibility of diagnosing Parkinson's based on video clips alone.
July 2022: CIA Director Addresses Speculation on Putin's Health
In July 2022, CIA director William Burns dismissed rumors regarding Putin's health, stating they had no evidence to suggest he was in bad health.
September 2022: Putin's Openness to Ceasefire
Reports emerged in December 2023 that Putin, through intermediaries, had signaled his willingness to consider a ceasefire in Ukraine that would freeze the conflict along the established front lines, a position he had apparently held since at least September 2022.
October 2022: Putin Calls India and China Close Allies
In October 2022, Putin described India and China as "close allies and partners," highlighting the strong relationships Russia maintains with these countries.
December 2022: Putin's Staged New Year's Address
In December 2022, Putin delivered a New Year's address, supposedly surrounded by soldiers. However, investigations revealed that many individuals in the address were not actual soldiers but allies or employees of Putin. Facial recognition technology helped identify some of these individuals, raising questions about the authenticity of Putin's public appearances.
December 2022: Putin Publicly Refers to Conflict in Ukraine as a "War"
On December 22, 2022, Putin addressed the Security Council, notably using the term "war" to describe the conflict in Ukraine instead of the previously used term "Special Military Operation." This sparked calls from anti-Putin activists for his prosecution under a newly enacted law that penalizes referring to the conflict as a "war" with a potential 15-year prison sentence.
December 2022: "Long Process" War and Conditions for Peace Talks
Putin acknowledged in December 2022 that the war in Ukraine could be a "long process." The Russo-Ukrainian War resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties since February 2022. Putin stated in January 2023 that peace talks with Ukraine depended on recognizing Russia's sovereignty over the annexed territories.
December 2022: Prosecutions for Criticizing the War in Ukraine
As of December 2022, over 4,000 people had been prosecuted in Russia for criticizing the war in Ukraine under the country's war censorship laws. These prosecutions demonstrated the escalating crackdown on freedom of speech and opposition to the war.
2022: Putin Ranked Among Least Popular Foreign Leaders in UK Survey
A 2022 survey conducted in the United Kingdom revealed that Putin was among the least favored foreign leaders, with a mere 8% of British respondents expressing a positive opinion of him.
2022: Revocation of Honors Following Ukraine Invasion
In 2022, in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, some of the honorary doctorates and awards previously awarded to Putin by organizations worldwide were revoked.
2022: Conflicting Reports About Kabaeva's Children
In 2022, conflicting reports emerged about the children of Alina Kabaeva. While previous reports indicated twin sons were born in 2019, Swiss media, citing the couple's gynecologist, revealed that she had given birth to a boy on both occasions, adding to the mystery surrounding Putin's alleged relationship with Kabaeva.
2022: International Condemnation of Putin Following the Invasion of Ukraine
In 2022, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, international condemnation of Vladimir Putin intensified due to mounting civilian casualties. U.S. president Joe Biden called Putin a war criminal and a "murderous dictator." The Ukrainian envoy to the United Nations compared him to Adolf Hitler, and the Latvian prime minister echoed this sentiment, calling him a "deluded autocrat."
2022: Censorship, Demands for Ukraine, and "Traitors" Warning
In 2022, Putin implemented a law imposing prison sentences for publishing "false information" about the Russian military, resulting in some Russian media outlets ceasing to report on Ukraine. Russia demanded Ukraine's neutrality, the recognition of Crimea as Russian territory, and recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk republics as conditions for ending the invasion. Putin issued a warning against Russian "traitors" he believed the West was using to destabilize Russia. Following the Ukraine invasion, Russia experienced a worsening demographic crisis due to emigration, declining birth rates, and war casualties.
2022: Russian Invasion of Ukraine and Censorship
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, state-controlled media, which serves as the primary news source for most Russians, portrayed the invasion as a "special military operation" and a liberation mission, aligning with the government's narrative. The Russian censorship agency, Roskomnadzor, mandated that media outlets exclusively use information from state sources, threatening fines and blocks for non-compliance. The use of terms like "war," "invasion," or "aggression" to describe the invasion was strictly prohibited, leading to the blocking of media outlets that violated this directive.
2022: Borshchevskaya Analyzes Putin's Foreign Policy
Anna Borshchevskaya, in her 2022 book, analyzes Putin's foreign policy, describing his focus on countering the US-led global order and addressing what he perceives as threats to Russian identity and unity.
2022: Intensification of Political Repression
After launching the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Putin significantly escalated political repression in Russia, creating an environment that made the subsequent 2024 presidential election highly questionable in terms of fairness and freedom.
2022: International Condemnation of Putin's Actions in Ukraine
In 2022, following Putin's invasion of Ukraine, numerous world leaders, including those from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands, publicly denounced the invasion as illegal and condemned Putin's actions.
January 2023: "Long Process" War and Conditions for Peace Talks
Putin acknowledged in December 2022 that the war in Ukraine could be a "long process." The Russo-Ukrainian War resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties since February 2022. Putin stated in January 2023 that peace talks with Ukraine depended on recognizing Russia's sovereignty over the annexed territories.
February 2023: Putin Suspends Russia's Participation in New START Treaty
In February 2023, Putin took the step of suspending Russia's involvement in the New START nuclear arms reduction treaty with the United States.
March 2023: Meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping
In March 2023, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Russia and had meetings with Putin in both official and unofficial capacities. This was Putin's first international meeting since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for him.
March 2023: International Criminal Court Issues Warrant for Putin's Arrest
The International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin in March 2023, alleging his criminal responsibility for the unlawful deportation and transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia during the invasion.
May 2023: South Africa's Grant of Diplomatic Immunity and Putin's Absence from BRICS Summit
In May 2023, South Africa announced it would grant diplomatic immunity to Putin for his attendance at the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, despite the ICC arrest warrant.
June 2023: Putin's Projected Vote Share in 2024 Presidential Election
In June 2023, an independent Levada poll indicated that 42% of respondents would vote for Putin in the 2024 presidential election.
June 2023: Wagner Group Rebellion
The Wagner Group, a private military company led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, launched an armed rebellion against the Russian government in June 2023. The revolt stemmed from escalating tensions with the Russian Ministry of Defense.
July 2023: South Africa's Grant of Diplomatic Immunity and Putin's Absence from BRICS Summit
However, in July 2023, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated Putin would not attend the summit "by mutual agreement" and would send Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his place.
July 2023: Threats Regarding Cluster Munitions and Withdrawal from Grain Deal
In July 2023, Putin threatened retaliatory measures if Ukraine utilized US-provided cluster munitions during its counteroffensive against Russian forces in occupied southeastern Ukraine. Additionally, on July 17, 2023, Putin withdrew from a deal allowing Ukraine to export grain through the Black Sea, despite a wartime blockade. This decision risked exacerbating the global food crisis and antagonized neutral countries in the Global South.
August 2023: Casualties in Ukraine War Reach Half a Million
By August 2023, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine had resulted in a significant human cost, with an estimated 500,000 combined casualties for both Russian and Ukrainian forces.
August 2023: Prigozhin's Death in Plane Crash
Two months after the Wagner Group's rebellion in August 2023, a business jet carrying Yevgeny Prigozhin and nine others crashed in Tver Oblast, resulting in their deaths. Western intelligence suggested the crash was likely due to an onboard explosion, leading to widespread suspicions of Russian state involvement.
September 2023: Limited Active Support for War in Russia
In September 2023, Valery Fyodorov, head of the VTsIOM state pollster, revealed that only 10-15% of Russians actively supported the war in Ukraine, indicating that the majority were not demanding the conquest of Kyiv or Odesa.
November 2023: Putin Encourages Large Families in Russia
In November 2023, Putin urged Russian women to have more children, stating that large families should be the norm in Russia.
November 2023: Declining Support for Putin in VCIOM Poll
In November 2023, a state-owned VCIOM poll found that only 37.3% of respondents would vote for Putin, marking a decline in his projected support.
November 2023: Putin Claims Russia Open to Peace Talks
In November 2023, Putin asserted that Russia was willing to engage in negotiations to end the conflict in Ukraine, while placing blame on Ukrainian leadership for resisting such talks.
December 2023: Putin Holds Press Conference, States Russia Will Only Negotiate After Achieving Objectives in Ukraine
On December 14, 2023, President Putin held a press conference, declaring that Russia would only engage in negotiations with Ukraine after fulfilling its military objectives. He also asserted that an additional mobilization of troops was unnecessary as there were already 617,000 Russian soldiers actively engaged in the conflict in Ukraine.
December 2023: Putin Criticizes Both Sides in Israel-Hamas War
In December 2023, while acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense in the Israel-Hamas war, Putin criticized the scale of Israel's response, drawing parallels to the siege of Leningrad, and suggested Russia's potential role as a mediator. He attributed the conflict to US foreign policy failures and condemned the impact on Palestinian children.
December 2023: Putin's Conditions for Peace in Ukraine
In December 2023, Putin clarified that peace in Ukraine hinged on achieving Russia's objectives, including the "de-Nazification, demilitarization, and neutral status" of Ukraine. He suggested, through intermediaries, that a ceasefire along existing battle lines was a possibility.
2023: Putin Mourns the Passing of Silvio Berlusconi
Upon the death of Silvio Berlusconi in 2023, Putin expressed his condolences, referring to him as an "extraordinary man" and a "true friend."
2023: Russia-Africa Summit
In 2023, Vladimir Putin hosted a summit in St. Petersburg focused on strengthening relationships with African countries, with delegations from over 40 nations in attendance.
2023: Der Spiegel Investigation Debunks Anonymous Source
A 2023 investigation by Der Spiegel revealed that the anonymous source claiming Putin's involvement with the Red Army Faction was unreliable and a known fabulist, raising questions about the validity of Belton's claims.
2023: Prioritizing Defense and Security Spending
By the end of 2023, Putin planned to allocate almost 40% of public expenditures to defense and security, demonstrating his focus on strengthening Russia's military capabilities.
March 2024: Rebound in Putin's Projected Support in VCIOM Poll
In March 2024, a VCIOM poll showed a rebound in Putin's projected support, with 56.2% of respondents indicating their intention to vote for him.
March 2024: Crocus City Hall Terrorist Attack
In March 2024, a terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall resulted in the deaths of at least 144 people and injured over 551, making it the deadliest attack on Russian soil since the 2004 Beslan school siege.
May 2024: Putin's Fifth Inauguration and War Economy Signals
Putin's fifth inauguration as president of Russia took place in May 2024. Analysts interpreted his replacement of the Defense Minister, Sergei Shoigu, with Andrey Belousov, as a signal that Putin intended to shift the Russian economy towards a war footing, suggesting a commitment to a protracted conflict.
2024: Putin's Fifth Re-election as President Amidst Allegations of Irregularities
In 2024, Putin secured his fifth term as President of Russia with 88% of the vote. However, the election was marred by widespread reports of irregularities, including ballot stuffing and voter coercion, particularly in occupied regions of Ukraine, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of his victory.
2024: Putin Declares He Will Not Seek Re-election in 2024
Putin announced in 2018 that he would not pursue another presidential term in 2024, citing adherence to the Russian Constitution's term limits as justification. This declaration signaled a potential shift in the Russian political landscape as a new era without Putin at the helm seemed to approach.
2024: Putin Wins Fifth Presidential Term Amidst Allegations of Fraud
Putin secured his fifth presidential term in 2024 with 88.48% of the vote. However, the election was widely criticized by international observers as neither free nor fair. The context of the election was marked by Putin's intensification of political repression following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The elections, also held in Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories, were marred by reports of irregularities, including ballot stuffing and voter coercion. Statistical analysis indicated an unprecedented level of electoral fraud in 2024.