Political Economy AnalySynthesis No.

Name: Agatha Regina M. Don

Course and Section: IDS41
Subject: International Political Economy
Professor: Mr. Jumel G. Estrañero

Putin sends message to world with 'spontaneous' election announcement

Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge
REUTERS, December 9, 2023
https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/putin-sends-message-world-with-spontaneous-election-announcement-2023-12-08/

NEWS TIDBITS: Vladimir Putin spontaneously announced during an event with Ukraine war
soldiers that he will be running for president again in the 2024 elections. The article emphasized
the manner in which he had made his announcement. It was as a soldier asked Putin if he’d be
running, and Putin said that he would, with his back at the camera. This moment is viewed as a
message to the rest of the world, underscoring Russia's resolve to defend its interests and
portraying Putin as a leader who has saved Russia from the almost catastrophic decline following
the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

ANALYSIS: Given that Russia has continuously displayed its power, pushing its dominance in
different aspects under the leadership of Putin has definitely earned the trust of Russians in their
leader. Putin running for presidency again in the 2024 elections will let him lead Russia until 2030.
In a Political Economy Perspective, Putin has created a government filled with corruption, while
also being centralized and interventionist. Putin used corruption for political control, in particular,
the creation of Western Sanctions. These sanctions caused major disruptions in Russia’s economy,
such as the devaluation of the ruble, increased inflation, and the departure of Western companies.
In addition, Putin’s propaganda power to gain control over the Ukraine war was also part of his
political strategy. His speeches have been recognized as effective propaganda, intended to maintain
domestic support for the war, provide justification for the invasion, and challenge US global
leadership. Putin’s re-election and the domestic support for him were the product of his propaganda,
and the spontaneous announcement was part of it.

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS: Upon examining the political landscape and the

implications of Putin’s reelection, the potential impact of the election announcement on
international alliances, sanctions, and diplomatic relations should be re-evaluated to provide a
comprehensive understanding of the broader geopolitical implications, especially that tensions
from the Ukraine war have arisen. Examining potential shifts in trade relations, investment
climates, and economic stability should be analyzed as well for the formulation of policy
recommendations that address both domestic and international economic concerns. A thorough
grasp of the situation is necessary for informed decision-making and the formulation of effective
policies that take into account the intricacies inherent in Russia's political and economic landscape.