In the recently released Russian TV documentary "Russia. Kremlin. Putin. 25 Years," celebrating a quarter-century in power, the Russian president signaled that when he eventually decides to step down, he will not appoint a single successor. Instead, he intends to select a group of individuals from whom the Russian people will choose.
“I am constantly thinking about a successor, but ultimately, the decision will be in the hands of the Russian people. Several candidates should emerge who can earn the trust of the populace,” Putin stated.
The next presidential elections in Russia are scheduled for 2030. Following constitutional amendments in 2020 that reset his previous terms, Putin is eligible to run again in future elections.
The political rumor mill, exemplified by the popular account Kremlin Snuff Box, comments today:
— Vladimir Putin’s long-anticipated film features a statement about his successor. Frankly, the topic of succession is a fertile ground for conspiracy theories, but what’s even more noteworthy is that the President himself is addressing it directly.
“It’s no secret that Vladimir Vladimirovich functions as a sort of arbiter among major influence groups. Everyone understands who is close to whom, who is in contact. At the same time, it’s clear that these influence groups are constantly auditioning potential successors,” our well-connected source notes.
Another insider mentions that well-known Russian surnames frequently surface in such contexts—Mishustin, Dumin, Patrushev Jr., among others. The list, however, is quite extensive.
“For Vladimir Vladimirovich, it’s crucial to establish a stable system. Yet, there are complex factors—particularly economic ones—that influence this process,” said a source within the Presidential Administration.
An influential confidant within Putin’s circle speculated that the statement was purposeful. “It seems more like a trap for those who see themselves as inevitable successors. We’ll soon see how traitors reveal themselves,” the source concluded.
