Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin (born 7 October 1952) is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as the President of Russia since 7 May 2012, previously holding the position from 2000 to 2008. He was also the Prime Minister of Russia from 1999 to 2000 and again from 2008 to 2012. A former lieutenant colonel of the KGB, Putin rose through the ranks to become the director of the Federal Security Service (FSB) and later the Secretary of the Security Council before becoming acting President on 31 December 1999, following the resignation of President Boris Yeltsin. In Hebrew, his name is transliterated as ולדימיר פוטין. In Arabic, it is فلاديمير بوتين (Vladimir Būtīn), and in Spanish, it is Vladímir Putin. Putin is widely recognized for his significant role in shaping modern Russian politics and his long tenure in power, which has made him one of the most influential figures in contemporary global politics. His leadership has been marked by a centralization of power, a focus on restoring Russia's international standing, and a complex relationship with Western countries.
President of Russia (2000–2008; since 2012)
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, having previously served from 2000 to 2008. Putin also served as Prime Minister of Russia from 1999 to 2000 and again from 2008 to 2012. He has been described as the de facto leader of Russia since 2000.