Vladimir Putin is a Russian politician who has held the office of President of Russia since 2012. He previously served as President from 2000 to 2008 and has also been Prime Minister during two separate periods, from 1999 to 2000 and from 2008 to 2012. Before entering politics, Putin worked as an intelligence officer. He has played a central role in Russian government and has been regarded as the main figure in the country's leadership since 2000.