News analysis

Putin could dash European hopes of a fresh start

His power consolidation means EU-Russia relationship likely to remain less than warm

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Although the recent political reshuffle in Moscow left many questions unanswered, at least one conclusion can be safely drawn from the surprise move by the Russian President: Even after the end of his term in 2024, Mr Vladimir Putin will be in charge, either as head of an empowered security council, or in some other capacity.

Politicians in Western capitals remained rather cautious in their assessments of the changes. Experts, however, were much more outspoken.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on January 18, 2020, with the headline Putin could dash European hopes of a fresh start. Subscribe