My knowledge of the Russians is somewhat dated, KGB, but I doubt little has changed.
I rather admire them for keeping old traditions alive in the face of much adversity over the centuries (imposed both from within and without their borders). I also like their dry humour, their heartiness and spirituality, poetry, music and literature. There's a really good people and culture there that deserve a better expression on the world stage.
Not yet convinced that Putin is the right chap to express that on your behalf, though.
As for mr.Putin then
- I never voted for him or for his party on elections.
- He is not an idiot
- Previously I underestimated him. And I believe that many in the West still underestimate him.
- He looks as typical Russian from a street, is regarded by many as 'one of us'
- Sometimes he is rude but in Russia it is not a great sin
- He hasn't so excellent education as pres.Bush (son) but in the context of famous Bushims unlikely Putinisms could be found.
- Previously Russia (the Soviet union, Russian Empire) had so many bad leaders that on this background mr.Putin looks well.
I have a question for you and for others
Name me Western politician that has (had) capabilities, propper type to be a model for ideal Russian leader?
Reagan? Clinton? Bush? Obama? Blair? Brown? Cameron? Sarkozy? Hollande?
My wife frequently visits German forums. A slogan - give up Putin instead of Merkel - is very popular.
