Who were the top political leaders of the countries involved and how were they viewed inside and outside their country?

The top political leaders of the countries involved in major global conflicts or crises have often been pivotal figures. For instance, Vladimir Putin of Russia has been viewed as a strongman domestically, garnering significant support through nationalism, while facing widespread condemnation from Western nations for his aggressive foreign policies. Similarly, Xi Jinping of China is seen as a consolidator of power, respected for his economic leadership at home but criticized internationally for human rights issues. Leaders like Joe Biden of the United States are often viewed as stabilizing forces in international relations, though opinions on his domestic policies vary widely.