Vladimir Putin's Biography

Vladimir Putin is a prominent Russian politician and former intelligence officer renowned for his leadership and influence in both Russian and global affairs. Born on October 7, 1952, in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Russia, he studied law at Leningrad State University before joining the KGB, the Soviet Union's security agency. After serving as a foreign intelligence officer, Putin transitioned into politics in the 1990s. His rise was meteoric; he was appointed Prime Minister in 1999 and became acting President later that year. Putin has served as either President or Prime Minister of Russia since 1999, significantly shaping the country's domestic and foreign policies. Famous for his assertive political stance and centralization of power, he has been a controversial figure in the West, facing accusations related to election interference, annexation of Crimea, and curtailment of civil liberties. Despite the controversies, Putin remains highly influential in Russia and maintains notable popularity among segments of the Russian public. He is known for his hobbies such as judo, ice hockey, and wildlife conservation, and is often photographed engaging in outdoor activities. With an estimated net worth often speculated in the tens of billions, Putin is considered one of the wealthiest world leaders, though the true extent of his assets remains undisclosed. His leadership style and political legacy continue to be subjects of extensive analysis and debate worldwide.