A banner at the protests in Moscow on Saturday carried a stark message: “Mubarak, Gaddafi, Putin”. Mingling with the crowds, it was clear that what began in December as protests against rigged elections has become much more personal. The diverse group of liberals, nationalists and communists that tramped through the frozen streets is united by its loathing for Vladimir Putin, Russia’s prime minister and would-be president.

The political link between Mr Putin and the Arab autocrats was strengthened over the weekend, as Russia vetoed a UN resolution calling for the end of the Assad regime in Syria. Those who expect Mr Putin to join Mubarak and Gaddafi on the trash heap of history within weeks are liable to be disappointed. He will almost certainly emerge from next month’s presidential elections as the winner.

Nonetheless, the opposition demonstrations have utterly changed the political atmosphere in Russia. Two months ago it was assumed that the country was probably facing 12 more years of Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin. Now, the end of the Putin era is in sight.