Putin Sworn in for New Six-Year Term

Russian President Vladimir Putin was sworn in for a new six-year term on Tuesday at a Kremlin ceremony, which was boycotted by the United States and many of its allies. More than two years into the war in Ukraine, Putin expressed his gratitude to Russia's soldiers and highlighted his landslide re-election in March as proof of the country's unity and direction.

"You, citizens of Russia, have confirmed the correctness of the country's course. This is of great importance right now, when we are faced with serious challenges," Putin said in his inauguration speech in a gilded Kremlin hall, where a trumpet fanfare greeted his arrival. He emphasized Russia's determination to defend its historical goals and values.

"I see in this a deep understanding of our common historical goals, a determination to adamantly defend our choice, our values, freedom, and the national interests of Russia," he added.

Western Boycott and Opposition Criticism

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries and political elites but was boycotted by the United States, Britain, Canada, and most European Union nations. France was one of the few Western countries to send its ambassador. Ukraine criticized the event, describing it as an "illusion of legality" for Putin's extended stay in power.

Yulia Navalnaya, widow of the late opposition figure Alexei Navalny, urged supporters to continue their struggle against Putin. "With each of his terms, everything only gets worse, and it's frightening to imagine what else will happen while Putin remains in power," she said in a video message.

Putin, 71, has dominated Russia's political landscape for over two decades. Leading opposition figures are either in prison or exile, and critics argue that the recent election was tightly controlled. The United States did not consider the election free or fair.

International Tensions and Nuclear Dialogue

In his inauguration speech, Putin remained open to dialogue with the West, including on nuclear arms. However, he emphasized that it was up to the West to choose between confrontation and cooperation.

"The choice is theirs: do they intend to continue trying to restrain the development of Russia, continue the policy of aggression, incessant pressure on our country for years, or look for a path to cooperation and peace?" Putin asked.

The war in Ukraine continues to be a significant point of tension between Russia and the West. The top U.S. intelligence official suggested last week that Putin perceives international developments as trending in his favor and that the conflict is unlikely to end soon. Ukraine maintains that peace can only come with a complete withdrawal of Russian troops, who currently control nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory.

Putin's Legacy and Future Decisions

Having held power as president or prime minister since 1999, Putin will surpass Soviet leader Josef Stalin and become Russia's longest-serving ruler since the 18th-century Empress Catherine the Great if he completes this new six-year term.

Sergei Chemezov, a close ally of Putin, praised him for bringing stability to Russia. "For Russia, this is the continuation of our path, this is stability – you can ask any citizen on the street," he said.

With rising nuclear tensions, Russia announced on Monday that it would practice deploying tactical nuclear weapons as part of a military exercise, following perceived threats from France, Britain, and the United States.

One significant decision awaiting Putin will be whether to renew or replace the New START treaty, the last remaining agreement limiting U.S. and Russian strategic nuclear warheads. The treaty expires in 2026.

New Government Formation

In accordance with the constitution, the Russian government resigned at the start of the new presidential term. Putin ordered the current government to remain in office while he appoints a new one, which is expected to include many familiar faces.

As Putin embarks on his new term, the international community will closely watch how his administration navigates the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its broader relationship with the West.