Putin poised for lifelong rule in Russia, eyes familial succession
Vladimir Putin remains the president of Russia for another term, and it looks like he will hold onto the position until his death. Already in his seventies, along with many of his closest collaborators, the search for successors has inevitably begun. Who could step into Putin's shoes?
12:17 PM EDT, March 25, 2024
Vladimir Putin retains his grip on the presidential office. The results of the presidential elections in Russia seemed predetermined long before the actual voting took place. Prof. Włodzimierz Marciniak, a political scientist, Sovietologist, diplomat, and former Polish ambassador to Russia, discussed with Business Insider Poland the prospect of Putin's extended reign, which could last another 12 years.
Prof. Marciniak highlighted Putin's unwavering grip on power, noting, "Putin's power is for life, and it's hard to envision him stepping down in any conventional political manner, whether by resignation or electoral defeat." He mentioned that Russia lacks a clear mechanism for power transition, with lifelong rule being the most likely scenario.
The possibility of Putin appointing a successor was raised by the expert. This successor could potentially be a family member. Prof. Marciniak pointed out rumors in Moscow suggesting that "one of Putin’s daughters might be groomed to take over his role".
In Russia, patriarchy is perceived to dominate, yet women often carry life's heaviest burdens. Thus, Marciniak speculated that the responsibility of leading Russia might fall on the shoulders of one of Putin's daughters.
Putin has acquired a taste for attritional warfare
Prof. Marciniak observed that Putin has bounced back from the initial failure of the swift attempt to capture Kyiv. The former ambassador suggests there are numerous signs that "Putin has acquired a taste for attritional warfare," a strategy that seems to energize Putin once again.
The war in Ukraine and the Western sanctions imposed on Russia have not triggered significant discontent within the country, leading Marciniak to conclude that this conflict might drag on for an extended period.
