Just a few months short of a quarter-century as Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin starts another six-year term as president holding extraordinary power. Since becoming acting president on the last day of 1999, he has shaped Russia into a monolith — crushing political opposition, running independent-minded journalists out of the country and promoting an increasing devotion to prudish “traditional values” that push many in society to the margins. His influence is so dominant that other officials could only stand on the sidelines as he invaded Ukraine despite expectations it would bring international opprobrium, as well as cost many Russia lives. With that level of power, what Putin will do in his next term is a daunting concern at home and abroad.