Which Russian president was reelected for a fifth term in the 2024 Russian presidential election?

Vladimir Putin was reelected as Russia's president in the March 2024 election, securing what is his fifth term in office. The election, held over three days from March 15-17, resulted in a significant victory for Putin, with election officials reporting a high percentage of votes in his favor. This outcome was widely anticipated, as the election was largely viewed as a carefully managed process to legitimize his continued leadership.

Putin has been a dominant figure in Russian politics for over two decades, serving as either president or prime minister since the end of 1999. His return to the presidency in 2012, after a term as prime minister due to previous constitutional limits, was followed by further constitutional amendments in 2020. These significant changes effectively reset his term count, allowing him to seek additional presidential terms, including the one in 2024, and potentially remain in power until 2036.

The 2024 election took place amidst a backdrop of severe restrictions on political opposition and freedom of expression in Russia. International observers and several Western nations, including the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, criticized the election, stating it was neither free nor fair. The election was seen by many as solidifying Putin's control over the country, further entrenching his long-standing leadership.