Introduction

The passing of Vladimir Putin, who has been the President of Russia since 2000, would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the international community. Russia's political landscape is complex and deeply divided among various factions, making the transition of power challenging. This article explores the potential scenarios if Putin died during his current term and was replaced by Vladimir Zhirinovsky, a radical and unpredictable political figure.

Impact on Military and Government

One of the immediate concerns following Putin's death would be the reaction from the military. Given that the military is a key pillar of the Russian government, any escalation or further conflict could lead to dire consequences, including the use of nuclear weapons if the circumstances escalate. Another key aspect to consider is the response from officials and businesses in Russia. After a period of initial shock, it is likely that they would seek to maintain the status quo to avoid destabilization. However, this approach might only provide temporary stability without addressing the underlying issues that led to the current conflict.

Struggle for Power and Instability

The death of Putin would trigger a power struggle among various factions within the Russian government. As there are no set procedures or laws for succession, the transition would be highly unpredictable and potentially destabilizing. Without Putin's authoritative leadership, the different factions within the Kremlin might find it difficult to reach any forms of agreement or compromise. Russia's history does not provide any examples of collective leadership, making any such scenario highly unusual and potentially catastrophic.

Putin's Succession and Legal Challenges

According to the Russian Constitution, the next in line for the presidency would be Mikhail Mishustin, the 58-year-old Prime Minister. However, this transition is far from smooth. Mishustin is a man of low initiative and was selected for obedience rather than to lead. The Kremlin factions would likely challenge his authority, making it difficult for him to establish his own leadership.

Prior to Putin, no Russian leader has been able to consolidate power as effectively or maintain stability without facing substantial opposition. The idea of a collective leadership is alien to Russian political culture, and it is likely that Mishustin, without Putin's support, would face significant opposition and would not be able to govern effectively.

International and Domestic Reactions

The global community would react strongly to any news of Putin's death and the potential rise of Zhirinovsky. The West, particularly the European Union, would be deeply concerned about the implications on regional and global stability. The EU countries have already faced significant challenges due to economic sanctions and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The potential for further escalation could lead to increased tensions and, potentially, a renewed crisis in global politics.

Conclusion

The hypothetical scenario of Putin's death and the replacement by Zhirinovsky presents a complex and potentially catastrophic situation for Russia. The lack of a clear and stable succession plan, combined with the divided and potentially volatile political landscape, could lead to significant internal and external challenges. The international community must remain vigilant and ready to address any sudden changes that may arise.