Putin vs Jinping / 5 achievements and 5 challenges of Putin-Jinping, how have they remained top leaders?

Putin vs Jinping: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have held the reins of power in their respective countries for a prolonged period. Putin assumed Russia’s leadership for the second consecutive term on March 14, 2004, after succeeding Boris Yeltsin in 1999. Despite constitutional limits barring more than two terms, he has maintained his grip on power and paved the way to remain in office until 2036. On the other hand, Xi Jinping, after serving as vice president for five years, took over as China’s president on March 14, 2013, and has laid the groundwork to stay in power for life.

Both leaders have emerged not only as dominant figures in their nations but also as influential personalities on the global stage. However, their successes come with no shortage of challenges. Let’s take a closer look at the key achievements of these two leaders and the obstacles they face.

Vladimir Putin’s 5 Major Achievements

1. Winning the Trust of the People
   Putin understands well that the foundation of power lies in public support. By securing over 76% of the vote in the 2018 election, he won the hearts of the Russian people. This was a clear sign of their faith in his leadership and decisions. If his popularity persists, he could surpass the record of Soviet Union’s legendary leader Joseph Stalin.
2. Leveraging Intelligence Experience
   As a former KGB officer, Putin has utilized his expertise to strengthen Russia. Adopting the KGB’s belief that the Soviet Union’s collapse was a result of Western conspiracies, he has worked to restore Russia’s lost glory—a mission in which he has largely succeeded.
3. Reviving Russia’s Global Standing
   When Putin took office in 2000, Russia was economically and strategically weakened. Through reforms, he not only stabilized the economy but also reestablished Russia as a formidable global power, challenging America’s dismissive label of it as a mere “regional power.”
4. Reining in the Oligarchs
   During Yeltsin’s era, oligarchs had gained immense influence, and the socialist framework had crumbled. Putin granted business tycoons economic freedom but ensured they stayed out of politics, solidifying his hold on power.
5. Expanding Strategic Ties
   Putin forged stronger relations with countries bordering five key seas—Caspian, Black, Baltic, White, and Lake Ladoga. These ties have bolstered Russia’s position in global strategy.

5 Challenges Facing Putin

1. Restoring Influence in the Middle East
   Russia’s intervention in Syria was a symbol of its strength, but the ousting of Bashar al-Assad and his flight to Moscow dealt a blow to Putin’s plans. Reasserting dominance in the Middle East poses a tough challenge.
2. Confronting NATO
   The 2014 Ukraine crisis and the 2022 war saw NATO adopt a firm stance against Russia. NATO’s growing strength and unity remain a headache for Putin, though cracks within the alliance are also emerging.
3. Avoiding Global Instability
   Russia’s closeness to nations like North Korea, Iran, and China could escalate global tensions. Putin must ensure his policies do not become a source of worldwide instability.
4. Managing China’s Rise
   Despite current camaraderie, Russia and China have historically been rivals. Putin must stay vigilant against China’s expansionist policies to safeguard Russia’s interests.
5. A Dignified Exit from the Ukraine War
   The Ukraine conflict, which began in 2022, remains unresolved. Ending it honorably is crucial for Putin to preserve his global image.

Xi Jinping’s 5 Major Achievements

1. Absolute Control Over Power
   Becoming the Communist Party’s General Secretary in 2012 and president in 2013, Xi established a firm grip over both the party and the state—an unparalleled achievement.
2. Pathway to Lifelong Leadership
   After Mao Zedong, Xi is the first leader to secure the possibility of lifelong rule, reflecting his political acumen.
3. Control Over Information
   Xi tightly regulates information in China. Through anti-corruption campaigns and internet censorship, he has shrouded the nation in secrecy.
4. Modernizing the Military
   By increasing military spending, Xi has strengthened the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), elevating China’s military might on the world stage.
5. Dominance Over Neighbors
   Through initiatives like the Belt and Road and economic aid, Xi has brought countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal under China’s influence—a diplomatic triumph.

5 Challenges Facing Xi Jinping

1. Backlash Against Expansionism
   Disputes over the South China Sea, Taiwan, and India have made Xi’s expansionist policies a target of global criticism. He must tread carefully to avoid further backlash.
2. Need for Military Reform
   Despite its strength, the PLA is plagued by corruption and internal strife. Xi needs to reform the military to restore its credibility.
3. The Military’s Ambitions
   The PLA’s growing power could threaten Xi. A rebellion from within the military might jeopardize his rule.
4. Rising Internal Opposition
   Some senior party leaders and the middle class are dissatisfied with Xi’s policies. This growing dissent could obstruct his path.
5. Global Pressure
   Western nations are intensifying pressure on Xi over human rights violations in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, presenting a significant challenge.

Conclusion

Both Putin and Xi Jinping have taken their nations to new heights, but their journeys are far from smooth. Putin grapples with NATO, Ukraine, and global stability, while Xi faces expansionism, military issues, and internal dissent. The future of these two leaders hinges on how effectively they navigate these hurdles.