In its governmental guise, patrimonialism is distinguished by running the state as if it were the leader’s personal property or family business. It can be found in many countries, but its main contemporary exponent — at least until January 20, 2025 — has been Vladimir Putin.

The Kremlin is keeping things measured. Putin is not rushing into a full embrace of Washington just because Trump is back in office. Moscow sees the reset in ties as positive, but officials are making it clear: the damage done under the last administration was extensive,