In a grand ceremony at the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin began his fifth term as the leader of Russia on Tuesday, pledging to defend the Russian Constitution and vowing to overcome all obstacles alongside the people. This inauguration comes amidst Putin's controversial actions, including the destruction of his political opponents, involvement in the war in Ukraine, and the concentration of power in his hands.

Putin, who has been in office for nearly a quarter-century, is now the longest-serving Kremlin leader since Josef Stalin. His new term does not expire until 2030, opening up the possibility of him running for office again if he chooses to do so.

The processions leading up to the inauguration were heavily choreographed, with Putin portrayed in his office conducting official business before making his way through the Kremlin's corridors to the Grand Kremlin Palace. The ceremony was attended by more than 2,500 hand-picked guests, including high-ranking members of the Russian government and American actor Steven Seagal. However, notable absences included the U.S., U.K., and German ambassadors, who decided not to attend the event.

In his speech, Putin expressed gratitude to the "heroes" of the war in Ukraine and criticized the West for their aggressive stance towards Russia. He emphasized that Russia remains open to dialogue, but the choice to continue containment and aggression lies with Western states. Putin received applause from the audience for his remarks.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the country has faced heavy sanctions from the West, leading Russia to seek support from other regimes such as China, Iran, and North Korea. The conflict in Ukraine, which is now considered Europe's largest since World War II, has caused casualties on both sides.

Speculation arises regarding Putin's future actions during this new term, both domestically and internationally. Russian forces are gaining ground in Ukraine, relying on scorched-earth tactics while Ukraine retaliates with drone and missile attacks. Putin has expressed a desire to establish a buffer zone in Ukraine to protect Russia from cross-border attacks.

The dissolution of the Russian government allows Putin to name a new prime minister and Cabinet. The Defense Ministry, which is gaining attention due to reports of corruption, is another area to watch as the war in Ukraine persists.

Domestically, Putin's popularity is tied to improving living standards for ordinary Russians. However, the cost of living has risen since the invasion of Ukraine, and Russia's economy has shifted to prioritize defense spending.

Critics of the Putin regime face severe consequences, with dissent fiercely suppressed and independent media, rights groups, and LGBTQ+ activists targeted. Notably, opposition leader Alexei Navalny, a prominent foe of Putin, died in February while serving a prison sentence in an Arctic penal colony. Navalny's widow, Yulia Navalnaya, released a video ahead of the inauguration, criticizing Putin's promises as empty and labeling him a "liar, thief, and murderer."

As Putin commences his fifth term as Russia's leader, he faces a country with limited opposition and growing international criticism. The years ahead will determine the path that Putin will take, both domestically and globally, as Russia grapples with the consequences of its actions in Ukraine.