Vladimir Putin: A Former KGB Agent Who Became Russia's President

Early Life and Career

Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin was born in Leningrad, USSR, on October 7, 1952. After graduating from Leningrad State University, he pursued a career in intelligence, joining the KGB in 1975. He rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the head of the agency's foreign intelligence department.

Russia's Political Landscape

In 1999, Putin became Russia's Prime Minister under President Boris Yeltsin. He was elected President in 2000 and has held the office ever since, with brief interruptions where he served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2012. During his tenure, Putin has been a key figure in shaping Russia's political landscape, using a mix of strategic alliances and repressive tactics.

Chechnya Conflict

One of Putin's early challenges was the Chechnya Conflict. In response to increasing separatism in the mainly Muslim Russian republic, Putin launched a full-scale land offensive to recapture the region. The conflict resulted in widespread civilian casualties and human rights abuses.

Rise to Power and Invasions

By the early 21st century, Putin had consolidated power in Russia, serving as both Prime Minister and President. His time in power has been marked by Russia's invasions of Crimea in 2014 and Ukraine in 2022, drawing international condemnation and sanctions.