World Shapers: The Most Influential People Today (Ranks 5–1)

 In the second part of this special two-part series, we focus on the five most powerful people of today. From global leaders to tech visionaries – from Jeff Bezos to Donald Trump. Who truly shapes the direction of the world in 2025? 

Transcript

"4 Minutes" – the special on the ten most influential people of today continues with its second part. In the first episode, we covered ranks ten through six. Today, we reach the very top. Let’s take a closer look at five individuals who have the greatest power to influence global events.

In fifth place is Jeff Bezos. The founder of Amazon has forever changed the way we shop, do business, and think about logistics. Amazon has become not only an e-commerce platform but also a giant in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and media. Bezos also invests in space exploration through his company Blue Origin and owns the prestigious newspaper The Washington Post. His vision combines technology, capital, and long-term thinking. Jeff Bezos is an entrepreneur who influences the economy, media, and even the future of space.

Fourth place goes to Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China and General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party. Under his leadership, China has become a key player on the global stage – economically, technologically, and geopolitically. His Belt and Road Initiative, his stance on Taiwan, and partnerships with Russia all have far-reaching consequences. Xi Jinping represents an authoritarian model of governance that is becoming increasingly influential not only in Asia. The world must take his decisions seriously.

Third place belongs to Elon Musk. A visionary who constantly pushes the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s Tesla electric vehicles, SpaceX rockets, the Hyperloop project, the Starlink satellite network, or his ventures in artificial intelligence, Musk is a symbol of society’s technological transformation. When he speaks or acts, the markets respond. Whether you see him as a genius or a provocateur, his influence is undeniable and global.

In second place is Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation. His decision to invade Ukraine reshaped Europe’s security architecture, affected global energy and food prices, and sparked new debates about the role of the West, NATO, and nuclear deterrence. Putin is a leader who can influence global peace, economic stability, and international law with a single decision. Whether regarded as a strong statesman or an aggressor, his impact is impossible to ignore.

At number one – the most influential person of today – is Donald Trump. In 2025, he once again became President of the United States, becoming only the second person in U.S. history to serve two non-consecutive terms. Trump’s policies, rhetoric, and ability to polarize society make him a figure who fundamentally shapes not only America but the entire world. His decisions directly affect international agreements, trade relations, immigration policy, and the global climate. Trump is a phenomenon who defines the course of today’s world – whether you agree with him or not.

This was the second part of our ranking of the ten most influential people today, brought to you by the 4 Minutes podcast. You can also follow us on social media – we’re on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X, where we share video content and short episodes.

Thank you for listening. Our next episode comes out on Friday, when we continue with our special series "Putin’s Russia."