President Vladimir V. Putin is asserting his dominance over Russian politics through two major events this week. Firstly, he began his fifth term as president in a highly choreographed inauguration ceremony in the Kremlin. The ceremony was filled with symbolism and boasted the new upgraded version of his Russian-made limousine. Mr. Putin’s oath included a pledge to respect and safeguard the rights and freedoms of citizens, with a nod to the difficult period Russia is currently experiencing. He also thanked Russian servicemen fighting in Ukraine, some of whom were among the 2,600 guests at the ceremony.
Following his inauguration, Mr. Putin is set to preside over the Victory Day parade in Red Square, an annual event that showcases Russia’s military might. This year’s parade comes at a time of Russian offensive in Ukraine, with troops advancing steadily and capturing multiple villages. In Moscow, Western-supplied weaponry captured in Ukraine has been displayed, with posters proclaiming Russia’s inevitable victory. The parade will see tanks and soldiers parade across Red Square in a display of Russia’s emboldened state. Unlike previous years, only leaders of a handful of former Soviet states and countries of limited stature on the international stage are expected to attend.
Amidst these events, there is speculation about the composition of Mr. Putin’s new cabinet and administration. Following the inauguration, cabinet ministers resigned, a requirement at the start of a presidential term. Mr. Putin is expected to nominate a candidate for prime minister to then nominate government ministers. Key ministers, including those in defense and foreign policy, are to be approved by the Federation Council. While there is no indication that Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Defense Minister Sergei K. Shoigu, or Foreign Minister Sergei V. Lavrov will be replaced, there could be a surprise reshuffling.
The shape of the next Russian government will provide signals to the country’s future course. In a country where bureaucratic posts are often based on personal connections and loyalty, ministerial and high-ranking positions in the Kremlin carry significant weight. Keeping current key ministers would signal Mr. Putin’s confidence in his team, as well as satisfaction with Russia’s progress in Ukraine and its international standing. The retention of these figures may indicate a belief in a winning strategy as Russia continues its offensive in Ukraine.
Mr. Putin’s fifth term as president began with a triumphal ceremony and will continue with a demonstration of military might in the Victory Day parade. The events showcase the Russian leader’s dominance in politics and his determination to succeed in Ukraine. The parade comes at a time when Russia’s troops are on the offensive, capturing villages and threatening Ukrainian defenses. As Mr. Putin oversees these events, the composition of his new government will further solidify his grip on power and signal Russia’s direction in the coming years. Amidst these displays of strength and authority, the country’s domestic politics and international strategy under Mr. Putin’s leadership remain in the spotlight.
