Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined criteria for the next generation of leaders, emphasizing that veterans of the war in Ukraine should be considered for leadership roles. He asserted that individuals who have shown courage, served their country without fear, and risked their health or lives should be elevated to high positions and seen as possible successors.
Since the conflict began in 2022, an estimated 1.5 million Russians have participated in the war in some capacity, giving Russia a large pool of potential future leaders who meet Putin’s standards. Recent constitutional amendments allow him to remain in power until 2036, when he would be 83 years old.
During a meeting with members of parliament, Putin said leaders in the future must be those who have made sacrifices for the country and proven their allegiance through action in war. He stressed that elevating such war veterans into leadership is not just symbolic but essential to securing Russia’s future governance.
