Part 3/14:
When Vladimir Putin assumed the presidency in 2000, Russia was still mired in disorder. The oligarchs, once allies, had gained unchecked influence—funding opposition, controlling media, and challenging state authority. Putin’s approach was clear: maintain the oligarchs' wealth but tighten their leash. His initial policy was to offer a simple bargain: stay out of politics, stay loyal, and keep your riches. Those who did so enjoyed relative stability, while dissenters faced harsh repercussions.