Vladimir Putin takes oath for fifth mandate as Russian president: “I swear to respect human rights”

Russian President Vladimir Putin was sworn in on Tuesday for his fifth six-year mandate at the head of the Kremlin.

“I swear (…) to respect and protect human rights and civil liberties and to respect and protect the Constitution, sovereignty, independence, security and integrity of the government,” the Russian president said, according to an AFP correspondent on the ground.

In his speech, Putin also addressed his compatriots and promised them that as a “great and united people” they would emerge stronger from this “difficult period”, referring to the war with neighboring Ukraine. “Together we overcome these obstacles (…)“Together we will overcome,” he said.

“Sacred Duty”

The president further stated that Russia itself will determine its own fate and considered a discussion with the West possible in the areas of “security and strategic stability”, but “only on an equal basis, with respect for each other’s interests”. Putin concluded that it was a great honor and responsibility, and “a sacred duty,” to lead Russia.

With this fifth term, Putin will in principle remain in power in Russia until at least 2030, but as a result of a constitutional change in 2020 he can, if he wants, add another six years, until 2036, the year in which he will turn 84 .