Putin Sworn in as New Russian President

Putin Takes Power

Vladimir Putin has officially become Russia's second democratically elected president after being sworn in at a ceremony at the Kremlin.

With his right hand on a copy of the 1993 Russian Constitution, Mr Putin swore a presidential oath to safeguard human rights, defend Russian independence and faithfully serve the people.

At his side was Russia's first president, Boris Yeltsin, who resigned unexpectedly at the end of last year.

Mr Putin took his oath of office in the ornate splendour of the Kremlin's Great Palace, as hundreds of top officials and political leaders looked on.