Putin has won the election in Russia. His victory is likely to pose a dilemma for all western nations. Nobody doubts that the Putin who returns to the Kremlin in May is the same Putin who has effectively run Russia for the past 12 years – charismatic,  uncompromising and fond of smirks towards 'western hypocrisy and double standards'.

Inside Russia middle class uprising against Putin is likely to continue. But the little doubt is held that Putin will iron down the protests and complete his new term in office until 2018.