Vladimir Putin: Four Years of Full-Scale War and the Future of the Kremlin
BERLIN, 24 February 2026 — Today marks exactly four years since the Russian Federation launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a conflict that has fundamentally reordered the global geopolitical landscape and redefined the presidency of Vladimir Putin. As the war enters its fifth year, the Russian leader faces a complex domestic environment of economic unease and battlefield fatigue, even as he maintains a firm grip on the Kremlin’s levers of power.
The Four-Year Milestone: A War of Attrition
On this Tuesday, the fourth anniversary of the February 2022 invasion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a scathing 18-minute video address belittling Putin’s military record. Zelenskyy asserted that despite the prolonged conflict, the Russian President “has not achieved his goals.” The anniversary comes amid reports of “battlefield fatigue” and a fraying social contract within Russia, as analysts suggest the Kremlin is losing approximately 38,000 troops per month.
Stalled Diplomacy in Geneva
Efforts to find a diplomatic resolution remain fraught with difficulty. Last week, on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, a second day of peace talks in Geneva ended abruptly after only two hours. Ukrainian negotiators described the sessions as “difficult,” while Russian officials have recently hinted at plans for a new round of forced conscriptions to bolster their slowing momentum on the front lines.
The Evolution of Vladimir Putin
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin’s political trajectory is rooted in his background as a Soviet intelligence officer. His career has transitioned from the shadows of the KGB to the absolute centre of Russian political life.
| Period/Date | Role or Milestone |
|---|---|
| 7 October 1952 | Born in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) |
| 1975 | Graduated with a Law degree from Leningrad State University |
| 1975–1991 | KGB Foreign Intelligence Officer (rising to Lieutenant Colonel) |
| 1990–1997 | Saint Petersburg City Administration |
| 1999 | Appointed Prime Minister; Acting President (31 December) |
| 1999–2008 | President of Russia (First and Second terms) |
| 2008–2012 | Prime Minister of Russia |
| 2012–Present | President of Russia |
Economic Pressures and Domestic Stability
While Putin’s approval ratings reportedly surged following the initial stages of the conflict, the long-term economic outlook for Russia is increasingly strained. Experts suggest that “stagnation grips Russia’s economy” as the Kremlin relies on heavy budget spending and credit growth to offset Western sanctions. Recent reports indicate that economic unease may eventually force the Kremlin to consider compromises, though Putin continues to frame the war as a necessary geopolitical struggle against Western influence.
Nuclear Rhetoric and Global Security
In recent days, the Russian President has intensified his rhetoric regarding Russia’s nuclear arsenal. Putin has warned that Russia would use “all means available” to defend the state should its existence be at stake. This “nuclear bombshell” rhetoric, directed specifically toward European powers like Britain and France, is viewed by international analysts as a strategic attempt to fracture Western unity and discourage continued military support for Kyiv.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long has Vladimir Putin been in power?
Vladimir Putin has been the dominant figure in Russian politics since late 1999. He served as President from 1999 to 2008, Prime Minister from 2008 to 2012, and returned to the presidency in 2012. As of February 2026, he has led Russia for over 26 years in various capacities.
Where was Vladimir Putin born?
He was born on 7 October 1952, in Leningrad, Soviet Union, which is now known as Saint Petersburg, Russia.
What is the current status of the Russia-Ukraine war?
As of 24 February 2026, the war has reached its four-year mark. It is currently characterised by a high-intensity war of attrition. While Russia has consolidated control over some claimed territories, it faces significant troop losses and ongoing international sanctions, while Ukraine continues to receive Western support despite stalled peace talks in Geneva.
What was Putin’s career before politics?
Before entering politics in the early 1990s, Putin served for 16 years as a foreign intelligence officer for the KGB, the Soviet Union’s primary security agency, where he reached the rank of lieutenant colonel.