Vladimir Putin

Putin, as Prime Minister, launched a military campaign in Chechnya in September 1999 after apartment bombings in Russia. The war restored federal control over the region but resulted in widespread destruction and human rights abuses.

Putin became acting President on December 31, 1999, after Boris Yeltsin's resignation, and won the March 2000 election. He consolidated power by centralizing federal authority and curbing the influence of oligarchs.

Putin ordered the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014 following a disputed referendum. This action was condemned by the international community, leading to sanctions against Russia and a deterioration of relations with the West.

Putin oversaw a constitutional referendum in July 2020 that reset his presidential term limits, allowing him to run for two more terms. The amendments also strengthened presidential power and enshrined conservative social values.

Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, escalating the conflict that began in 2014. The invasion resulted in massive casualties, a refugee crisis, and unprecedented Western sanctions against Russia.