As 2023 draws to a close, Putin wants the world to think he is winning

. From the geopolitical point of view, he appears to be achieving this goal. Putin has been able to strengthen Russia’s global influence through a variety of tactics. He has cut deals with other major powers, including the US, China, and the increasingly powerful Turkey. He has also leveraged Russia’s status as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council to advance Moscow’s interests, most notably in the conflicts in Syria and Ukraine. Additionally, Putin has built lasting relationships with certain authoritarian governments around the world, from Venezuela to Syria and Iran. His willingness to use military and economic force in pursuit of Russia’s objectives has further extended Moscow’s influence. Within Russia, too, Putin has been able to remain popular at home, in part, due to aggressive media control and suppression of dissent. He has also been able to improve Russia’s economic standing, leveraging the country’s natural resources to obtain investment, technology, and improved infrastructure. Moreover, Putin has capitalized on Russia’s place in the global energy market to expand its prowess. At the same time, Putin faces a number of challenges. Domestic discontent is on the rise, and many in Russia are increasingly unhappy with the country’s direction. Meanwhile, Western sanctions continue to cause economic hardship, and numerous questions remain about the Kremlin’s interference in the 2016 US election. Moreover, Putin’s strategic gamble on Syria has not paid off, with Moscow still in a state of military deadlock. Ultimately, Putin’s status in the world as of 2023 will depend heavily on how he and his government are able to tackle the issues listed above, as well as the introduction of new technologies and geopolitical developments. But his actions in the next few years will no doubt continue to shape his legacy and influence for years to come.