Putin: A undisputed leader or a shadow for democracy in Russia?

In Russia, a country of vast expanse and rich history, an electoral event is unfolding that, at first glance, seems to lack uncertainty and real competition. Vladimir Putin, the former KGB agent who became an indispensable and authoritarian leader, once again finds himself at the pinnacle of power, in an electoral process that many consider a mere formality to legitimize his reelection. With a track record that includes having served multiple presidential terms and being a ubiquitous figure in Russian politics since the 1990s, Putin is once again facing the polls with the expectation of achieving a voting percentage around 80%, according to Kremlin projections. However, experts point out that these elections are possibly the most rigged in the country's political history. Putin's image has been built around the idea of being the savior of Russian pride, the leader who will restore Russia to its place as a world power. His nationalist rhetoric and confrontational stance towards the West have been a constant throughout his tenure, marked also by repression towards opponents and dissenters, creating a climate of fear and control in the country. However, despite his firmness on the international stage, Putin has also sought to be perceived as a strong and unpredictable leader by the West, maintaining an ambiguous relationship that has shifted from collaboration in his early years of government to open confrontation today. The constitutional reform that will allow Putin to remain in power until 2036 has raised concerns in some sectors, who see in his prolonged tenure a risk to democracy and freedoms in Russia. The elimination of potential contenders and the limitation of political competition are just some of the elements that have sparked criticism both within and outside the country. In an increasingly complex international context, with growing tensions and urgent global challenges, Putin's reelection raises questions about the future of Russia, its role on the world stage, and the implications of a leadership that has shown itself willing to do anything to stay in power. As Russians head to the polls amid a climate of distrust and skepticism, Vladimir Putin's legacy as president remains a subject of debate and reflection in a country that has experienced profound and turbulent transformations throughout its history. The lingering question is whether 21st century Russia will find a path towards stability and democracy, or continue to navigate under the shadow of a leader who seems willing to defy all conventions.