It's like he's trying to stoke a new revolution. This article argues that he represents a return to Bolshevik rule: https://www.europeaninstitute.org/index.php/251-european-affairs/ea-april-2015/2017-perspectives-understanding-putin-the-bolshevik-code-provides-clue

And, even while he may reflect that Bolshevik Code, he's trying to erase from the Russian pysche and sense that they could have a choice or a voice in the direction of their nation and who leads it. https://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/why-putin-wont-be-marking-the-hundredth-anniversary-of-the-bolshevik-revolution