Vladimir Putin has been president of Russia for a total of more than 21 years. He first became acting president on December 31, 1999, then was officially elected president starting in May 2000, serving two consecutive terms until 2008. After serving as prime minister from 2008 to 2012, he was re-elected president in 2012 and has remained in office since then, currently serving his fifth term following the 2024 election.
Timeline of Putin's Presidency
- Acting president from December 31, 1999
- Officially president from May 7, 2000, to May 7, 2008 (8 years)
- President again from May 7, 2012, to present (over 13 years as of 2025)
- Elected to a fifth term in the March 2024 election, inaugurated May 2024
Summary
Putin has continuously held the highest power in Russia either as president or prime minister since 1999, with over 21 years as president across non- consecutive terms. His leadership has extended through constitutional changes allowing a reset of term limits, enabling his current ongoing presidency.