On March 18th Vladamir Putin was re-elected as the president of Russia, securing at least another six years in office. It was an announcement that the world expected, but a bitter one nonetheless. The citizens of Russia do not have a voice in their government; any true opponents to Putin's rule have faced imprisonment, public defamation and even the threat of death. But none of this is surprising, as Putin's regime is one known for its brutality and lack of concern for political process. Under Putin's guidance, Russia invaded Ukraine, a move that not only violated Ukrainian sovereignty but showed a complete disregard for the borders of other nations.
But the Russian government pays no regard to the opinions of the outside world; no sanction, public condemnation or grammatically-questionable tweet has done anything to alter Russia's political course. It is probable that little will change in Russia over the next six years, save for a political uprising of portions never before seen. So it is almost assured that in six years Putin or a pawn of his will be elected for another term. There is no reason to believe anything will change in Russia, and that is something you should care about.
But the question many Americans would ask is why should we care? Why should we care about a rigged election on the other side of the world, or how many times Putin will serve as president? Why should we care about Russia's involvement in Ukraine? First and foremost there are almost 150 million people who no longer have the chance to voice their opinion in politics-- and 45 million in Ukraine battling the threat of foreign invasion. And well Russia's threat is one easily overshadowed by North Korea or terrorist organizations, it is important to remember that Russias military power can only be matched by that of the United States or China. Russia is a country with a nuclear arsenal, a geographical advantage, and a complete disregard for the political rules which maintain the turbulent peace present in many western countries.
Russia is a cause for concern in the United States; their election rigging is not deserving of congratulations, or even neutrality. As an average American, you are unable to do anything to change life or politics for the Russians; however, you are able to care.
