Vladimir Putin was sworn in as Russia's president for a fourth term today, extending his almost two-decade rule by another six years at a time of high tension with his Western rivals. The 65-year-old, in power since 1999, is on course to become the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin after his victory in March's elections. Putin won nearly 77 percent of the vote in polls which his most vocal opponent was banned from running in. He has promised to use his fourth term to revitalise the country's economy. But he also faces a host of delicate international disputes.

Vladimir Putin was sworn in as Russia's president for a fourth term today, extending his almost two-decade rule by another six years at a time of high tension with his Western rivals. The 65-year-old, in power since 1999, is on course to become the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin after his victory in March's elections. Putin won nearly 77 percent of the vote in polls which his most vocal opponent was banned from running in. He has promised to use his fourth term to revitalise the country's economy. But he also faces a host of delicate international disputes.