"Putin poised for another term as Russia sets date for presidential election"

Russia's presidential election is set for March 17, with Vladimir Putin expected to run and win another term. Although Putin has not officially announced his candidacy, he is widely expected to do so now that the date has been set. Putin remains popular in Russia, with an approval rating of 82%. He signed a law in 2021 that allows him to run for two more terms, potentially keeping him in power until 2036. With tight control over the political system, Putin's victory is almost certain. Some potential challengers have signaled their intention to run, including Igor Girkin, a pro-Russia fighter in Ukraine, and opposition leader Alexei Navalny has urged his supporters to vote for anyone but Putin.