Putin sworn in as Russian president for fourth term

Vladimir Putin has been inaugurated as the president of Russia for the fourth time, renewing another six-year term in office. The 65-year-old Russian leader took oath at an official ceremony in the Grand Kremlin Palace in the capital, Moscow, today (May 7), 18 years after he first came to power. Putin's fourth presidential term comes after he easily won the elections in March, receiving 76% of the votes.

"I consider it my duty and sense of my life to do everything for Russia for its present and future - for the peaceful and prosperous future - and the welfare of every Russian family." - Vladimir Putin

A former agent for the Russian spy agency, KGB, Vladimir Putin went on to become the country's prime minister in 1999. Less than five months later, he took over the presidency at the age of 47. A "macho man" image has fueled Putin's popularity at home. The Kremlin leader has worked equally hard to assert Russia's tough image abroad. Forbes magazine has named Putin the world's most powerful person for four years in a row.