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Welcome back, everyone!

I’m Ethan, and today we’re exploring the life and career of Vladimir Putin, a central figure in modern Russian history.

For a translatable transcript of this episode, please visit our website at lewh.

site.

​ Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin was born on October 7, 1952, in Leningrad, now known as Saint Petersburg.

His early life was marked by modesty; he grew up in a communal apartment, typical of the post-war Soviet Union.

His father, Vladimir Spiridonovich Putin, served in the Soviet Navy, while his mother, Maria Ivanovna Shelomova, worked in a factory.

Tragically, two older brothers died before his birth—one in infancy and the other during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II.

​ it.

In 1975, Putin graduated from Leningrad State University with a degree in law.

Shortly thereafter, he joined the KGB, the Soviet Union’s main security agency, where he served as a foreign intelligence officer.

His tenure included a notable period in East Germany from 1985 to 1990, which provided him with valuable insights into international affairs.

​ Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Putin returned to Russia and began his political career in Saint Petersburg, serving as an advisor to Mayor Anatoly Sobchak.

By 1996, he had moved to Moscow, where he quickly ascended the political ladder.

In 1998, he was appointed head of the Federal Security Service (FSB), the successor to the KGB, and later served as Secretary of the Security Council.

​ In August 1999, President Boris Yeltsin appointed Putin as Prime Minister.

Just months later, on December 31, 1999, Yeltsin unexpectedly resigned, naming Putin as Acting President.

This swift rise to power culminated in his election as President in March 2000.

​ During his first two terms as president from 2000 to 2008, Russia experienced significant economic growth, largely attributed to rising oil and gas prices.

Putin implemented policies aimed at centralizing power and restoring Russia’s influence on the global stage.

Constitutionally limited to two consecutive terms, he served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2012 under President Dmitry Medvedev.

In 2012, Putin was re-elected as president and has remained in power since.

​ In April 2021, following a national referendum, Putin signed constitutional amendments allowing him to seek re-election for two additional terms, potentially extending his presidency until 2036.

He was re-elected in 2024 with a significant majority, marking his fifth term in office.

​ Throughout his tenure, Putin has been a polarizing figure.

Supporters credit him with stabilizing Russia after the tumultuous 1990s and restoring national pride.

Critics, however, accuse him of eroding democratic institutions, suppressing political opposition, and curtailing press freedom.

His foreign policy decisions, including the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, have led to international sanctions and strained relations with Western countries.

​ In February 2022, Putin ordered a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, escalating tensions and leading to widespread condemnation from the international community.

The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement, further isolating Russia on the global stage.

​ Domestically, Putin’s administration has been characterized by a consolidation of power.

The government has implemented laws restricting public protests, limiting the activities of non-governmental organizations, and increasing control over the internet.

These measures have been justified by authorities as necessary for maintaining stability and protecting national interests.

​ Economically, Russia has faced challenges due to fluctuating oil prices and the impact of international sanctions.

Despite these obstacles, the government has focused on diversifying the economy and promoting technological innovation.

However, critics argue that corruption and a lack of structural reforms continue to hinder Russia’s economic potential.

​ In recent years, Putin has emphasized the importance of traditional values and positioned Russia as a counterbalance to Western liberalism.

This ideological stance has resonated with certain segments of the population and has been used to justify policies both domestically and abroad.

​ As of March 2025, Putin remains a central figure in global politics, with his actions continuing to shape Russia’s trajectory and its relations with the rest of the world.

​ For a translatable transcript of this episode and additional resources, please visit our website at lewh.

site.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of Vladimir Putin’s life and career.

Until next time!