You're reading: BBC: Russia election – Putin basks in election he could not lose

It was the victory rally he never doubted he’d join. Two hours after the last polling stations in western Russia closed, Vladimir Putin strode on stage beneath the Kremlin walls to declare his re-election.

With a broad smile, he thanked the country for what he called “a vote of confidence” and promised to work for the future of a great nation. He then led the crowd of loyal, flag-waving fans braving the freezing cold in a chant of “Russia! Russia!”

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