A nation is most powerful when its ability to influence others is sustainable. Systems that place power in the hands of a single individual are vulnerable. Vladimir Putin has led his country for two decades through daunting challenges. “During the 1990s, Russia endured a profound systemic crisis and national humiliation unprecedented for a major power not defeated in a great war,” explains Thomas Graham, distinguished fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and former senior director for Russia on the National Security Council staff. He is also a senior fellow with the Jackson Institute for Global Affairs at Yale University. Putin restored Russia’s military, reduced foreign influence and became wildly popular despite some unsavory methods. He also gained from improved relations with China and declining confidence in the West. Putin’s presidential term concludes in 2024, compelling him to consider the next steps for Russian governance. The road to great power requires reforms, modernization along with confidence that the country Putin built can thrive long after he relinquishes power.
