Putin to Run for President as an Independent Candidate: Report

Vladimir Putin, the long-serving Russian leader, is set to run for president again, but this time as an independent candidate rather than representing the ruling United Russia party, according to two senior pro-Kremlin lawmakers. Putin, who has been in power for over two decades, is seeking another six-year term in the upcoming March elections.

The move to run as an independent emphasizes Putin’s broad support base beyond party lines. Despite a formal election process, Putin is expected to secure victory comfortably, given the strong backing of the state, state-run media, and limited dissent. The election is viewed by critics as lacking genuine competition, with a years-long crackdown on opponents and dissenters contributing to a constrained political landscape.