As the world reacted in horror and disbelief to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the man who ordered the military attack, President Vladimir Putin, was widely condemned for what has been described as a dangerous and unprovoked act of aggression.
Putin has been in power for almost 25 years and his new term will last until 2030. But who is this man from Leningrad who grew up to become one of the most powerful men in recent history?
Click through and find out more about Vladimir Putin's life and career.