Andrei Bogdanov

Andrei Bogdanov is the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Russia (UGLR), an organization that has navigated a complex relationship with the Kremlin. Despite historical tensions, Bogdanov claims that the UGLR operates without issue in contemporary Russia, maintaining a low public profile while fostering civic independence among its members. He has been a figure in political circles, having founded his own party and run for president in 2008, though he has been criticized for allegedly attempting to legitimize elections under Dmitri Medvedev's administration. His role within the UGLR and his participation in state events, including the inauguration of President Vladimir Putin, reflect a unique position that balances secrecy with occasional public engagement.