Russia in Turmoil

As Russians go to the polls on March 4 to choose a new president, there's little doubt about the outcome. Vladimir Putin, who has been president or prime minister since 1999, is considered a shoo-in. Yet, despite years of rapid economic growth fueled by boosted oil and gas exports, Putin's efforts to extend his authoritarian rule are facing a new and destabilizing challenge. Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets since December to protest pervasive corruption and alleged electoral fraud. In the past, Putin has dealt firmly with political opponents — many of whom have been exiled, imprisoned or died in mysterious circumstances. But now many are wondering if Russia's winter of protests will mark the start of a “Snow Revolution,” inspired by the “Arab Spring” movement that toppled dictators across the Middle East last year. The upheaval has strained relations with the West — as has Russia's recent support for the repressive Syrian regime — leading to questions about what lies ahead for Russia, a nuclear power and the world's second-largest oil producer.