Putin Wins Russian Re-election: Extended Rule Amidst Controversy

Vladimir Putin has won re-election as Russia’s president for another six years, extending his rule to 25 years. The election was criticized for not having any serious challengers.

Putin got 87.3% of the vote with a 73.33% turnout. His closest competitors were far behind, with the Communist candidate coming second.

This is Putin’s biggest win yet in his five presidential elections. Despite protests against him, Putin said Russia’s election was fair.

He also commented on the death of his opponent, Alexei Navalny, calling it sad and confirming he was willing to do a prisoner swap involving Navalny.

When asked if his re-election was democratic, Putin criticized the US political system. He said the world is laughing at the US, calling it a disaster, not a democracy.