MOSCOW, October 7. /TASS/. An overwhelming majority of Russians (80%) consider Russian President Vladimir Putin one of the world’s most influential leaders, according to a study by the Analytical Center of the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VCIOM).

The telephone survey was conducted on October 6, 2026, among 1,600 Russians aged 18 and over.

"Today, the Russian president celebrates his 74th birthday. To mark the occasion, the VCIOM Analytical Center conducted a study on the head of state’s role in strengthening the country’s position. An overwhelming majority of Russians recognize Vladimir Putin as one of the world’s most influential leaders (80%)," the center said on its website.

Only 17% of respondents disagreed.

About seven in ten Russians (71%) believe that Russia has become stronger during Putin’s years in office. Meanwhile, 69% said that his policies had prompted the international community to take Russia more seriously, while 68% expressed confidence that the country would overcome all difficulties under his leadership.

"Thus, Russians see the incumbent president as a guarantor of the country’s stability, strength and international influence, entrusting him with resolving the most complex challenges facing the nation," the study said.