Putin Secures Fifth Term, Signals Intensified Confrontation with the West

Following a landslide victory, Russian President Vladimir Putin vows to continue challenging Western influence, raising concerns over potential NATO conflict.

• Putin wins a historic fifth term with nearly 88% of the vote, using the victory to assert Russia's resistance to Western intimidation.
• Recent statements by Putin and NATO leaders hint at a possible direct confrontation, with Putin acknowledging the risk of a Third World War.
• The Russian president plans to escalate efforts in Ukraine and disrupt the Western liberal order, leveraging his re-election to solidify his legacy.
• China's cautious support for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict underscores the complex geopolitical landscape, with Beijing seeking to balance its strong ties with Russia against its relationships with the West.
• Experts and former defense officials call for increased NATO readiness and defense spending in response to the heightened threat from Russia.

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The Telegraph CNA South China Morning Post