Two years after the start of the war, Putin looks set for another six-year term, with his forces on the offensive and the West unable to deal with him.
Photographer: Louise Delmotte/APThe Big Take
Putin Eyes New World Order After Crushing Opposition in Russia
Russia’s longest-serving leader since Stalin is all but certain to win another term as president this weekend just as the war in Ukraine turns in his favor.
Just before Russia’s presidential election six years ago, Vladimir Putin delighted lawmakers by showing off video simulations of the country’s newest strategic weapons. One was even aimed at a map of Florida.
This time around, the muscle flexing has gone further. Last month, he took a test flight on Russia’s latest nuclear bomber while issuing blunt warnings to the US and Europe about the risks of Armageddon over his invasion of Ukraine.