MOSCOW, Dec 8 (AP) – Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that he intends to run for a fifth term in the 2024 election, extending his rule over the country until at least 2030. This move would make him the longest-serving leader of Russia since Josef Stalin.

Putin, who came to power in 2000, has already been in office for four presidential terms. With the Kremlin’s support, state-run media, and limited dissent in the public, Putin is widely expected to win the election, and he currently enjoys approval ratings over 80% in independent polls.

The announcement came after Putin awarded Ukraine war veterans with Russia’s highest military honor, the Hero of Russia gold star. One of the veterans asked Putin to run again, to which Putin responded, “I will run for the post of president.” The election is seen as a formality with no discernible opponent able to challenge Putin.

Despite the expected victory, Putin faces significant challenges including the war in Ukraine, Western sanctions, and internal dissent. The conflict with the West has led to extensive sanctions on Russia, although Putin has maintained control and the Russian economy is expected to grow faster than the euro zone or the United States.

Critics characterize the election as a symbol of a corrupt dictatorship, with opposition politicians vying against Putin in a carefully managed imitation of democracy. While some view Russia’s involvement in the Ukraine war as a strategic mistake that has led to internal conflict and global isolation, others argue that Putin has restored order and bolstered Russia’s influence on the world stage.

Putin’s decision to seek another term comes as Russia continues to grapple with the economic impact of Western sanctions and widespread dissent. Despite these challenges, Putin is expected to hold onto power for the foreseeable future, with no clear successor in sight.

As Russia prepares for the election, the world watches closely to see what lies ahead for the country under Putin’s continued leadership.

Reporting by Rewrite, editing by Rewrite and Rewrite