Crossword Genius

Despotic leader installed without a break (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

putin

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'despotic leader' is the definition.
'putin' can be an answer for 'leader' (I have seen 'Russian leader' mean 'putin' so perhaps 'leader' could also mean 'putin'). I'm not certain of the 'despotic' bit.

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for putin that I've seen before include "Introduce" , "Russian leader" , "powerful leader" , "Russian president" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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