PM Modi congratulates Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election

New Delhi, March 18, 2024: Prime Minister Modi congratulated Russian President Putin on his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation.

In a message on “X”, PM Modi said, "Warm Congratulations to H.E. Mr Vladimir Putin on his re-election as the President of the Russian Federation. Look Forward to working together to further strengthen the time-tested Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia in the years to come.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin secured a victory in Russia's recent election, marking a significant milestone in his enduring leadership since his rise to power in 1999. With a resounding 87.8% of the vote, Putin's win solidifies his position as a dominant figure in Russian politics, poised to extend his tenure for another six-year term.

Addressing his supporters in Moscow, Putin emphasized the outcome as a validation of Russia's stance against Western pressures, particularly regarding its involvement in Ukraine.

He asserted that the landslide victory sends a clear message that Russia, under his leadership, will continue to assert itself on the global stage, both in times of conflict and peace.

At 71 years old, Putin's imminent sixth term places him on track to surpass Josef Stalin as Russia's longest-serving leader in over two centuries. The magnitude of his win, the highest in post-Soviet history, highlights the support he commands among the electorate.

In his victory speech, Putin vowed to prioritize addressing the challenges stemming from Russia's military operations in Ukraine while emphasizing the need to bolster the nation's armed forces. He underscored the importance of unity in the face of external pressures.

However, not all reactions to Putin's victory were celebratory.  Several Western Countries including France, Germany and the United States have criticised the methods of polls in Russia accusing Putin of manipulating it.

Inspired by the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny, thousands of protesters voiced dissent against Putin's leadership, highlighting ongoing tensions within Russian society.

Putin dismissed these protests as having no impact on the election's outcome, asserting that the electoral process remained democratic.

Putin acknowledged Navalny's recent death, describing it as a "sad event" and confirming his willingness to engage in a prisoner swap involving the opposition figure.

Despite this gesture, Putin's victory underscores his firm grip on power and the enduring challenges facing Russia's political landscape.