Russian politics

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during the State Council's meeting at Grand Kremlin Palace on Dec. 26 in Moscow.

World News

Putin's Rule Turns 20: Many Russians Find Stability; A New Generation Sees Stagnation

9:44am January 06, 2020

by Lucian Kim

Even after two decades in power, Russia's leader enjoys approval ratings around 70%. Supporters say he has returned the country to greatness. But a poll says over half of young adults want to leave.

Russian opposition candidate and lawyer Lyubov Sobol stands in front of police during a demonstration in Moscow on July 14. This summer's wave of opposition protests has pushed Sobol to the forefront of the Russian political scene.

World News

'The Government Is Very Afraid': Meet Moscow's New Opposition Leader, Lyubov Sobol

7:39pm August 21, 2019

by Lucian Kim

Lyubov Sobol's tenacity in standing up to the authorities, combined with a savvy use of social media, has put her at the center of attention as a new protest leader.

Queue Listen Now

Residents of Pereslavl-Zalessky gathered for a protest against planned garbage dumps earlier this month. As Russian President Vladimir Putin approaches his 20th year in power, anger over bread-and-butter issues is sparking protests.

World News

'The Rot Starts From The Top': Russians Protest Over Problems Big And Small

11:38pm July 25, 2019

by Lucian Kim

As President Vladimir Putin approaches his 20th year in power, anger over bread-and-butter issues is sparking demonstrations across the country.

Queue Listen Now

People attend a rally and a concert celebrating the fourth anniversary of Russia's annexation of Crimea at Manezhnaya Square in Moscow on Sunday. The controversial move to take Crimea became a proud event for some voters who handed Vladimir Putin a broad

Russians, With No Real Alternatives, Give Putin 6 More Years In Power

1:34pm March 19, 2018

by Lucian Kim

Vladimir Putin has handily won a fourth term as Russia's president, with many voters telling NPR they saw no other viable candidates.

Queue Listen Now

In Moscow, Russian voters will head to the polls on Sunday to cast their votes in the country's presidential election.

World News

From Pride To Protest: How Russians Feel About Their Presidential Election

8:47pm March 16, 2018

Ahead of Sunday's presidential election in Russia, NPR spoke with a Putin supporter, an opposition supporter and a Russian who sees no point in voting.

Queue Listen Now