Russian President Vladimir Putin formally registers for the 2024 presidential race.
Putin's candidacy initiated by 500 supporters as per Russian election law.
Independents like Putin need 300,000 signatures from 40 regions to qualify.
Putin nominated by a varied group, including United Russia officials, actors, athletes.
Putin employed different strategies in past elections, running independently in 2018 and as a United Russia nominee in 2012.
March 17, 2024, chosen as the date for Russia's presidential election.
Constitutional reforms allow Putin to seek two additional six-year terms, potentially staying in power until 2036.