To counter this, I searched ChatGPT "Give me a summary of the good stuff Putin has done". I don't agree with the centralized power, but if it works for Russia, who am I to judge.
Vladimir Putin’s time in power has been marked by a range of policies and actions that some see as positive, especially from the perspective of stabilizing Russia after the chaos of the 1990s and strengthening its position on the world stage. While many of his actions are controversial, there are several areas where some credit Putin for improving certain aspects of Russia’s governance and international standing.
Here are some of the key things Putin has been praised for:
1. Stabilizing Russia After the 1990s
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia went through a period of economic hardship, political instability, and widespread corruption in the 1990s under President Boris Yeltsin. Putin is often credited with restoring stability to Russia after this tumultuous period. His leadership helped curb the chaos, bringing a sense of order and control to the country.
2. Economic Growth in the Early 2000s
During Putin's first two terms (2000-2008), Russia experienced significant economic growth. This was largely driven by rising oil and gas prices, which boosted Russia's energy exports. Under Putin, Russia’s GDP grew significantly, and the country was able to pay off much of its foreign debt, which had been a major problem in the 1990s.
3. Improved Living Standards for Many Russians
Economic growth under Putin led to improved living standards for many Russians. There was a significant reduction in poverty, and wages and pensions increased for many citizens. The government invested in infrastructure and raised public sector salaries, which helped improve the quality of life for a portion of the population, especially in urban areas.
4. Strong Nationalism and Pride
Putin has positioned himself as a defender of Russian national identity and pride. He has emphasized the importance of Russia’s historical and cultural legacy, and many Russians feel that he has restored their country’s dignity on the world stage. Under Putin, Russia has projected itself as a global power, particularly in the context of the West’s influence.
5. Restoration of Order in Chechnya
After two brutal wars in the Chechen region, Putin's leadership has been credited with restoring order and stability in Chechnya. While the methods used were highly controversial (including heavy military force and human rights abuses), Chechnya is now largely peaceful, and the region is under the control of Kadyrov, a loyal ally of Putin. This has helped reduce the threat of separatism in the region.
6. Military Modernization
Putin has invested heavily in modernizing Russia's military, including upgrading its air force, navy, and missile systems. This has been seen as a way to strengthen Russia’s defense capabilities and ensure its security in a world where it perceives increasing threats from NATO and Western powers. This military modernization is also viewed by some as a demonstration of Russia’s renewed global influence.
7. Energy Superpower
Under Putin’s leadership, Russia has maintained its position as a global energy superpower, with large reserves of oil, natural gas, and coal. The Russian state has also worked to develop and control key pipelines to Europe and China, giving it significant leverage in global energy markets. This has been a source of economic power and political influence.
8. Strategic International Influence
Putin has worked to reassert Russia's influence globally, particularly in regions like the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. Russia’s intervention in Syria, for example, helped ensure the survival of Bashar al-Assad's regime and cemented Russia’s role as a key player in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Putin has also positioned Russia as a counterbalance to the West, particularly the United States and NATO.
9. Support for Traditional Family Values
Putin has positioned himself as a defender of traditional family values, promoting laws and policies that reflect conservative views on issues like same-sex marriage and abortion. These positions have been popular with some segments of the Russian population, particularly in more rural and religious areas.
10. Centralization of Power
While often criticized as authoritarian, the centralization of power under Putin is seen by some as a necessary step to maintain political stability in a country with a history of weak institutions and political chaos. His control over key parts of the government, business sectors, and media has allowed him to keep a firm grip on power, which some see as essential to avoid the kind of instability that marked the 1990s.
In summary, supporters of Putin point to his role in stabilizing Russia, revitalizing the economy (especially in the early years of his rule), restoring national pride, and increasing Russia's global influence. These are seen as significant achievements, especially in contrast to the difficulties and instability faced by Russia in the post-Soviet years. However, it's important to note that many of these successes come with significant criticisms, particularly in terms of democratic freedoms, human rights, and the authoritarian nature of his rule.
