May 6, 2025 – Moscow, Russia
In a rare and revealing interview, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke candidly about the future of Russia’s leadership, admitting that he thinks about his potential successor “all the time.” The statement came during an in-depth conversation with Kremlin-aligned journalist Pavel Zarubin, widely regarded as a key figure in Russian state media.
Putin, who has held power in Russia in various roles for more than two decades, rarely discusses the question of succession publicly. However, in this latest exchange, he acknowledged the importance of ensuring stability in the country and suggested that the issue weighs heavily on his mind.
“This is something I think about constantly,” Putin said. “It’s my responsibility to ensure that Russia has strong, capable leadership in the future.”
While the Russian president did not name any specific individuals as potential successors, his remarks have sparked renewed speculation both inside and outside the country about who might take the reins when the Putin era eventually ends.
The interview is being seen by analysts as part of a broader strategy to prepare the public—and the political elite—for an eventual transition of power, though no clear timeline has been suggested.