President Vladimir Putin has secured a historic win in Russia's presidential election, garnering an unprecedented 87.97% of the votes, according to initial official results.
This landslide triumph ensures Putin, aged 71, a new six-year term, positioning him to surpass Josef Stalin as Russia's longest-serving leader in over two centuries.
Putin's triumph, although expected, holds significant implications for Russia's domestic and international landscape.
For the former KGB lieutenant colonel, who ascended to power in 1999, this reaffirms his firm grip on authority, signalling to the West that Russia remains a formidable force to reckon with under his leadership.
The election outcome reflects a clear endorsement of Putin's leadership, with voter turnout reaching 74.22% nationwide, surpassing levels seen in 2018.
Despite his dominance in the polls, Putin sought to underscore his popular support among Russians, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the conflict with Ukraine.
However, the election was not without controversy, as critics, including those from the United States, denounced the process as neither free nor fair.
Concerns were raised over the suppression of political opponents and restrictions on opposition candidates, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of Putin's victory.
The election took place against a backdrop of heightened security, with thousands of police and security personnel deployed to maintain order.
Opposition voices, led by prominent figure Alexei Navalny, who recently died in custody, attempted to stage protests under the banner of "Noon against Putin," denouncing what they see as Putin's authoritarian rule.
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