1. Vladimir PUTIN President 2000-2008
•KGB agent during communist years
Took over when Yeltsin unexpectedly resigned
Was elected in democratic elections in 2000 •appeals to a Russian public that has grown increasingly tired of years of clumsy leadership and widespread corruption •Putin has been credited with stabilizing Russia and cracking down on crime

2. Dmitry MEDVEDEV President 2008-2012
• Putin’s campaign manager in 200 elections
Sought to modernize Russia’s economy & society
Wanted to lessen Russia’s reliance on gas & oil
Campaigned against corruption
gained Russia's admission into the World Trade Organization in 2011

3. Vladimir PUTIN President 2012-present
•was Medvedev’s Prime Minister
Elected to 3rd presidential term in elections that attempted to be transparent, including the use of webcams
Relations w/US & Pres. Obama strained when Putin banned American adoptions after Obama accused Russia of human rights violations