"Ah, Zoloto. That's just Putin bein' Putin."
It still makes me laugh. Know what else is funny? President Bush's assessment of Putin in 2001:
"I looked the man in the eye. I found him to be very straightforward and trustworthy and we had a very good dialogue. I was able to get a sense of his soul."
For a thought-provoking take on Moscow's recent conduct, check out David Remnick's essay in this week's New Yorker.
3 comments:
I can imagine what W was thinking as he stared Putin directly in the eyes: "Boy, I love a good cheeseburger. With mustard and ketchup. I wonder if this Pootan guy likes mustard and ketchup on his cheeseburgers. Damn, I can't remember if I fed the dog this morning! Gotta call home when I get outta here."
Get a sense of his soul. My ass.
The author says Putin "views the United States as hypocritical, overextended, distracted, and reluctant[to protect Georgia]."
He found a way to remain in power over a huge country that was, and can be again, a tremendous world power. And he's right on target with his views of our foreign policy. So...
Jackass, yes.
Stupid jackass, no.
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