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[POLITICS] · Russia · 3 sources

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Russia faces uncertainty over Vladimir Putin's lack of succession plan

Vladimir Putin has constructed a political system in Russia that relies heavily on his personal authority, yet he has failed to establish a clear mechanism for the transition of power. Analysts suggest that his eventual departure from office could trigger a struggle for dominance among the Russian elite rather than an orderly succession.

Because the Russian Constitution does not include a vice presidency, the Prime Minister is tasked with temporarily assuming presidential duties until elections are held. However, current Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin is noted for lacking the extensive political network required to guarantee an electoral victory. The ruling party, United Russia, is also not designed to facilitate the selection of a successor.

The potential for instability is compounded by a gerontocratic leadership structure. Many of Putin's closest allies in the military and security sectors are in their seventies, while younger political cadres have been systematically excluded from high-level decision-making roles for years. This lack of generational turnover has left the country without a pool of experienced leaders prepared to manage a sudden shift in power.

Entities

Dmitry Medvedev · Mikhail Mishustin · Russia · United Russia · Vladimir Putin

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