Putin the autocrat comes of age
Putin's response to terror attack in Moscow suggests a departure from democratic values.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read

Following a terror attack on the Crocus City complex in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin’s response has raised concerns about the direction of Russia’s democracy. Despite claims of fighting against terror and maintaining unity, Putin’s landslide victory in a significantly flawed election, coupled with the brutal aftermath of the attack, suggests a consolidation of power and a departure from democratic values. The blame game following the attack has been used to deflect from accountability and further Putin’s narrative. This event highlights Putin’s pursuit of control over addressing real vulnerabilities, leaving ordinary Russians and neighboring countries to bear the consequences. The situation points to a worrying trend of sacrificing democracy in the name of national security and unity.