Vladimir Putin has been a dominant figure in global politics for over two decades shaping Russia's future and influencing world affairs but is he a hero or a villain the answer depends on who you ask to many Russians Putin is seen as a strong leader who restored national pride after the chaotic 1990s under his rule Russia regained its position as a major Global power his supporters Praise Him for stabilizing the economy modernizing the military and standing up to Western influence on the other hand critics view Putin as an authoritarian who has crushed descent manipulated elections and undermined democracy his aggressive foreign policy including the annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has drawn widespread condemnation whether Putin is a hero or villain depends largely on your perspective in Russia many see him as a protector of national interests globally however his actions have made him one of the most controversial leaders of our time