The strongman

By Angus Roxburgh

Subjects: Biography, Presidents, Politics and government, Evolution politique, RUSSIAN FEDERATION, Chefs de gouvernement, Biographies, Relations internationales, Russia (federation), politics and government, Politik och fo˜rvaltning, Histoire, EXECUTIVE POWER, HEADS OF STATE, Presidenter, Biografi, ECONOMIES IN TRANSITION, Putin, vladimir vladimirovich, 1952-, BIOGRAPHY, Politik, Russia (federation), history, PRESIDENTS, Historia, POLITICAL CONDITIONS, History, Postcommunisme

Description: Russia under Vladimir Putin has proved a prickly partner for the West, a far cry from the democratic ally many hoped for when the Soviet Union collapsed. Abroad, Putin has used Russia's energy strength as a foreign policy weapon, while at home he has cracked down on opponents, adamant that only he has the right vision for his country's future.