On Dec. 8, President Vladimir Putin, 71, announces his candidacy for a fifth term.
Putin and Lieutenant Colonel Artyom Zhoga Artyom Zhoga, a former separatist fighter in eastern Ukraine, are seen after a ceremony to award Gold Star medals to people honored with the title of Hero of Russia, at the St. George’s Hall of the Grand Kremlin Palace. The event marked the Day of Heroes of the Fatherland, which is celebrated on Dec. 9.