As Russians go to the polls, the outcome is certainly already written as Vladimir Putin runs pretty much uncontested in his bid for a fifth term in office.
Opposition candidates were banned from standing, fled the country or are dead – like Mr Putin’s most prominent critic, Alexei Navalny.
So, what will another six years of rule mean for Russians, the war in Ukraine and the world?
On the Daily, Sky’s Tom Cheshire looks at the president’s grip on power over the years as he’s joined by our international correspondent Diana Magnay, who spent the past six years reporting from Moscow for us.
Plus, Tom talks to former British spy Christopher Steele – who previously ran MI6’s Russia desk – about what challenges to Mr Putin there could be.
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Podcast producer: Sydney Pead
Interviews producer: Melissa Tutesigensi-Charles
Senior podcast producer: Annie Joyce
Editor: Wendy Parker
I don’t understand why people are so worried about Putin. He’s just a little man with a big ego.
It is a very interesting article. I had no idea about this.
Putin’s power is so great that he can even make bears dance.
I disagree with the author’s conclusion. I think Putin is a strong leader and he is doing what is best for Russia.
This article is so boring. I can’t believe I wasted my time reading it.
This article is very informative. I learned a lot about Putin’s power and the Russian election.
Sure, Putin is a great leader. He’s doing such a great job that people are fleeing the country.
Ironic that Putin is talking about democracy when he is the one who has been suppressing it in Russia.