The Russians voted for Putin.  The Americans voted for Bush.  Putin warned Bush not to invade Iraq.  Who voted smarter?  The Russians or the Americans?

Let's not forget this man is a leader and player of the current world we live in....and he have a "leader" that gives a massage to Germany's leader and calls this man by a nickman Pootie-Poot....Mr. Bush, that is still just a frat boy and currently losing all his staff like rats on a sinking ship looks like the punk he is next to a real man.

Very interesting!

Here is a very caculating "ex"-KGB apparatchik who has stated that what the Russian Federation needs is more "stal" (steel)as in Josef Stalin who "Putin the Great" idolizes! and bemoans the fall of the Soviet Empire. Not my kind of leader and not even preferable to the putz we now have as president (I had to vote for him twice compared to the two buffons the Dems put up against him!). Maybe one day both the Russian Federation and the good ole' US of A will both have leaders who can actually lead! (Definition of leadership: the ability to lay out a vision, program or plan and then lead the people to that vision, program or plan by logical persuasion). Hven't seen that in a while, now have we?

What is all the hoopla about? He looks like any other old boob: bald headed, grey whats left, and with boobs beginning to sag. Lame lonely women are who think hes sexy.

meeeow! reminds me of daniel craig, the 007 hottie.

I find it interesting that so many people refer to President Putin as being like an "average Joe." Perhaps by American standards but certainly not by the standards of Russia.  For all his foibles, Boris Yelsin was far more like the typical Russian man.  Boris Nikolaevich may have had a weakness for vodka, but so do a lot of other Russians. He also seemed to have a Russian soul.  He was a man who was not without flaws, but they were the kind of flaws that the average man saw in himself and could identify with.  Vladimir Vladimirovich is a much more measured character.  He is very in control, as you would expect from someone who is coming out of the intelligence services.  His physical fitness is far from typical of Russian men his age.  I think one of the reasons for his popularity here is that he is the sort of strong, confident and assertive guy that most Russians wish they were, but are not.  Vladimir Vladimirovich may be a lot of things, but I don't think that an "average Joe" is one of them.  

Who cares who would win in a fight. Vladamir Putin isn't going to get into a fist fight with anybody. Neither is President Bush. Presidents,Prime Ministers,Kings,Dictators and other World Leaders don't get into fist fights.Their bodyguards or Secret Service equivalents wouldn't allow it. Besides, if either President Bush or Vladimir Putin was that good in a fist fight,he probably wouldn't be a very good head of state. He would be all brawn and no brain.  

Hey fellows. For those who believe in newspapers and TV news about Russia. If you think that theres no freedom overthere and Putin is a dictator. So go to Russia and you will understand that theres more freedom then anywhere else in the world!!!!.

Hey, if Putin offered me a chance to go camping, hiking, and fishing with him, I would take him up on it.  There's supposed to be some incredible fishing over there, and I'm sure he would know the best spots (absolute power tends to bring you the very best information).  Honestly, if Bush did the same, I would also take him up on it.

I really don't particularly care for either guy.  However, finding common ground with someone you disagree with provides you an opportunity to communicate with people that you would never have anything to do with, in a low-pressure, more comfortable setting.  I would certainly bring up my concerns with either man's governance, hopefully in a way that they might actually listen and think about it.  Of course, if they suddenly become total jerks in the face of constructive criticism, well, at least you tried and now you know the true nature of the man.

Isn't this a bit better than calling each other "lefties" and "right wingers"?

Bill N: This happens to be MY COUNTRY TOO no matter how much I disagree with you.  First, I suggest you go get a copy of the U.S. Constitution and read the Bill of Rights until you understand them.  Second, a question: Did you show Bill CLinton as much respect as you do GW?  If not, GET YOUR SORRY AS* OUT OF MY COUNTRY, you flaming hypocrite!!!!!!!

JMD

A shirtless man is a shirtless man.  For people to believe that Putin is more a president than others for merely going out in public without a shirt, they must seriously have some mental issues or be completely ignorant of the world around them currently.

I WILL STAND WITH GW BUSH AS HE ARM WRESTLES PUTIN; ANY AMERICAN 45 THRU 70 YRS OLD WILL KICK ANY RUSSIANS BUTT; GWB WOULD MAKE PUTIN HOLLER UNCLE; TEXANS RULE AND KANSANS MOP UP AFTER BUTT KICKINGS LIKE PUTIN WILL GET, HA HA HA.....I`M PROUD TO BE AMERICAN, AND DONT FORGET IT.

Some people here seem to have very vauge, and quite frankly, ignorant views on how the world works.

Firstly, about the Putin pictures, which, allegedly is what this article is about, I would say that Putin's physique and attactiveness largely irrelevant factors, excepting the minor factor that he is probably less likely to die from something like a sudden heart attack.  Do I think Putin is attempting to crush democracy in Russia? Not really, since that implies that there was a stable democracy in Russia before Putin got there. If he isn't any better than the ruling crowd before him, he's not really much worse. Yeah, he was a KGB thug, and those types of methodolgies and tactics seem to be his modus operandi. But it was those thugs who were running the country since Stalin took over. Russia hasn't really had self rule since before the Mongol invasion (excepting Alexandr Kerensky's six months of rule after the February revolution).

Now, for all of you Bush bashers. I am sick. *sick* of hearing that "We went into Iraq because of Oil." Let me explain something very, very simple. Even the original, extremely overoptomistic estimates put the cost of the invasion at something like 200 billion dollars if they wanted to rebuild and remain. And even if they did that, it would not be assured that other regional powers, like Saudi Arabia or Syria or Iran would not step in and snatch the oil away from us. If we really wanted oil that bdly, we could you know, just buy it. Iraq was under crippling economic sanctions at the time, and wasn't in a position to bargain too hard. And, coincidentally, since most of the people who are saying "Oil, Oil, Oil," have such a low opinion of the republican administration, I would like you to ask yourselves that if Bush was so evil, why wouldn't he just cut a nice little deal with the nasty dictator and just buy the oil.

Now, to be fair, I will cite my own opinion, which is far more cynical than the oil one.

Setting: The War Room of the White House, probably some time in the summer of 2002. The Afganistan campaign has gone on without much of a hitch, but Bin Laden got away, and the whole thing is likely to fade into obscurity. Bush still doesn't want to go down in history as the "Guy who let 9/11 happen" and his second victory in the election is really not looking all that certain. He wants to do something muscular to impress the voters back home, so who does he look at?
Well, current attention is on the middle east, and we have three real enemies there at that moment. Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Syria is landlocked, hard to get a supply line to. Iran is extremely strong, at least on defense, probably looking to be too much like the bloodbath Iraq is turning into now. But Iraq..... Iraq looked weak (Remember how easily they fell apart in the first Gulf War?) Iraq probably doesn't have WMD's or they would have shown them the first time around. Remember, they threatened to fire gas missiles at the invasion force, but they never materialized, and it was too short a gap in between wars to have any real chance of developing a viable nuclear weapon. Maybe Iraq had some gas, but gas attacks are only really effective against civilan populations, an armored column breathes its own air. However, Saddam's internal position was precarious enough (He had to put down two revolutions in between 1992 and 2001, and unrest was *seething* that he couldn't be seen to his own people as knuckling under to American pressure.

Bush had a perfect target. And to be honest, if it was executed better, it probably would have worked as the Bush politios would have wanted. However, occupation is not something America is really good at, and we have the situation at present.

Good day to you all
Adam

I have to say he looks better than most Russian women.

He still looks like a weasel to me.I wonder as a KGB agent how many people he personally killed? He looks like the cold blooded type.

Putin is rebuilding his military to the old soviet union way. He is a two-faced man and not to be trusted. He is no friend of the US at all! The Russians and the Chinese are doing joint military exercises right now. May the US and all Americans beware. The Russians have are defense systems scrambling because they are flying too close and snooping around. Heed the warning now. It won't be long before you see what I'm talking about.

No fish there.....no shirt, no shoes,no service

Here's hoping that Hillary has the good sense to keep her shirt on after she's elected President.  That would truly be adding insult to injury...

WOW!! Even on the BBC Putin looks good better on my laptop. Great bod, sexy, full of man and macho just like our Bainimarama too. Funny it doesn't get any better than what we've glimpsed now. Just brings out the grrrr.... minus the weapons. YEA life's short live and let live! Interesting to see who's next?

Did anyone ever think that maybe Putin was just hot - men go shirtless all the time............. not everything has to be interpreted as a political move. That the trouble with the media - a guy can't just go camping anymore.

Bobf!  I am a republican!  I served my country in the Navy!  I am a veteran!  I am disgusted by the fact that people like you look at it as republicans or democrats!  How about looking at our country as a WHOLE!  My REPULICAN thoughts are for the saftey of our country, and for all others who need help.  I am a WOMAN!  And from the sounds of it, I have already done more for our country than YOU could ever imagine!  Don't talk the talk unless you WALK THE WALK buddy!

I would never have thought this event to create such a stir-up amongst so many. Have you no better things to consider or to ponder. Do you have rules against persons in other countries going around without shirts ???

People, grow up. Human beings are going to believe whatever suits their best interests. And to bobf, I encourage you to do some research. You'll find that the majority of our folks fighting in the Middle East are... Republican. If that's not standing up and fighting, then I don't know what is. And please don't give me any lines about "just following orders". This is an all volunteer military that our great nation has. And this goes for everybody. Do your research before you put some stupid comment on here for everyone to read, and don't believe everything that the liberal media has to say. Putin's actions should speak louder than the physical image that he has. Jeez.

Anyone who values a free press and freedom of speech should fear this man.  He was head of the KGB while its teeth were still sharp.  He has had reporters executed with impunity.  This article treats him like an entertainment biz celebrity.  It is gross.

Well, at least he wasnt busted for HGH (Human Growth Hormone) like Balboa!  The true crime here is that Putin did not "relax" like this when visiting the USA at GW's dads place in Maine.  Perhaps next time Putin visits, the two can have a bench press competition versus missile pointing and Defensive Satellites.

I agree that Putin is a calculating dictator!  

But Wow Bobf!  My comment really is directed to you and not the topic at hand.  BUT I believe you, Bobf, have crossed a line with your little rant.  

It's a mighty big statement to say, "...But you cowards (Republicans) cut and run when it comes to fighting for this country. All republicans can do is talk, none of these bastards would ever stand up and fight for this country."

My husband along with thousands of others sacrifice their lives every day so that you may make such comments.  They are Republicans, as the majority of military servicememers are!  They are brave not cowardly!  THEY ARE THE ONES WHO STAND UP AND FIGHT FOR THIS COUNTRY!!!! And whatever your opinion about the current administration, you better not forget that it is many Republicans that will keep your a*s safe and free when the time comes!

Don't all you men know that the comments were supposed to be concerning Putin not so great body? Might know you would all get into discussing Bush and war.

To Rude Dog,

Hey Dog, check your spelling ability before you said anything about Bush trying to complete a sentence! What are "picures?" A dog should be loyal to his master and should never bite the hand that feeds it.  Remember the saying :"Right or wrong, it's my country!"  At the very least you should try to defend your own master / president.

I would say that Georgie Boy  has never had a cow on his so called cattle ranch and tries to act like a cowboy !!!
Please NO bare chested pictures of George Or Laura !!!

Oh Vlad is putting on a really good media face isn't he? He's the most corrupt and offensive Russian leader in 40 years and you all think he's cute. Let's see how long it takes for that impression to get slapped right upside your face. He operates like a criminal with impunity, well he is. Not that I am a fan of Dubya, these guys together really threaten world peace. Stalin liked the same kind of propaganda.

Susan M from Webster; thank-you, it is refreshing to see that someone else out there gets the big picture.

BROKEBACK PUTIN... the day that the Russian "PR" machine, as it is ! can tantilize and feather up a crowd of wonks whom idlize the left over "Communist Spy' master just goes to show.

It just goes to show that those whom think they are important don't have a clue what reality is and to those anti-american wonks.. please go try Russia for a decade, they need your inputs, puts,.. puts.......

Putin does not have anything against americans, and Russians on a large part are very much like Anglo Americans.
Putin is one serious mother, a patriot through and through and if any one wants to try to damage Russia then they better be prepaired to take his wrath,
even the Russian mafia are scared pitliss of him and realise that he is their biggest threat.

12 years ago you could have someone wiped out (snuffed) in Moscow for $50 the streets where ruled by mafia to day its safe and its thanks to him.

I have 12 years anglo soviet relations and do have some insight into the situation, the west have nothing to fear from Russians,nor Muslims it is  groups like Al Qaeda, Nazi's and other radicals who are the threats to society.

I really fear when Putin leaves next year as there is no leader as strong or with honest intentions as he and probably after a while the hyhenas will come home to roost & scavange once again bringing Russia down,
But I hope not.

What most North Americans don't understand is the basic national psyche of the Russian people.  The Russian people like...even NEED...a strong leader; in their history, every time there's been a lack of strong leadership, chaos resulted.  This need explains Josef Stalin (among others).  The following is NOT meant to be a derogatory comparison, and I hesitate to make it for fear some will take it wrong...but sometimes one might consider cats versus dogs when thinking about national leadership needs.  A cat dislikes control or direction from a human...a trait common to most US citizens.  However, a dog without human guidance is a "lost" & miserable creature.  Having lived in Russia, I believe that whenever Russia has a weak leader, it's "uncomfortable" for them..."disorienting"...and it's also dangerous for other countries.  If I thought like a Russian, I'd find Putin a VERY good leader.

I don't think Putin is a democratic leader.  But then again how many Russian leaders have been in their long history.  Anyway, I think a topless picture of their obviously muscular, martial-arts practicing, young-looking 54-year old leader would be nothing but positive for the Russians insomuch as they would even notice it.  The Russians are one of the most unhealthy people on the planet with very high alcoholism rates, poor fatty diets, poor medical care and for Russian men a life expectancy of 57-58 years - which is lower than that of India or any Central American country!

I'm not gay, but I love Putin.

come on !!!!!!
Some people talk like a real komunist or imperalist
and you ar saying something abouth russins???
What we become the world police ,world is loocking at us as they locked at Germany at 1940 .
World cant wait  to take us down dont you see that?
Guys think we ar the one who is ocupating the world.
Think what will hapend to us as hapend to all empires.

Ooh, Vlad, you're such a hunk. You look sooooo sexy. Of course, you'd look even sexier if you grew up and started acting like a leader instead of a spoiled brat! God only knows we've got enough of those running the world!

Okay...but did they catch any fish?!?

Putin illustrates the fact that even if you have some natural strength if you do no pushups or bench press you will have some chest flab or man-boobs.  He does curls for the girls but need to add in some bench.  No pectorals there.
As far as Bush with no shirt on, as someone said, I assume he'd have less flab than Vladimir.
Regarding someone actually saying Jerry Ford "swam topless"...uh are there any men who don't?  

Robert, your wrong! Putnim is not the Anti-Christ. Hillary Clinton is! Don't mind Russia's politics? Vote for Hillary and She will make him look like a girl-Scout, selling cookies, on the corner! She is a full blown Commie!

You are so right Billy N! I am not an American but I clearly see what the so called Liberal gasbags are clowning around to take over the reigns of the country during your next elections. Chances are...they are likely to win but at the wrong time when 'Antichrist' is most likely to rule the world. Before that time comes, believers of the true Living God who made heaven and earth would be raptured by His only Son Jesus Christ. All the best to those who'll be left behind to face the literal hell on earth for 7 years. You can go on getting excited over a foreign dictator in sheep's clothing and poke fun at your own president....which reflects on your own foolishness!! Every leader is exalted or removed from his position by God regardless of whether that leader is capable or otherwise. Appreciate the beautiful country God has given you and get ready for the soon intervention of the Creator into human affairs before he puts an end to men's rule and opens a new age ruled by His only Son Jesus Christ. Either you are with Him or against Him...you decide!!!!

To Rude Dog-Phoenix Arizona,

If Putin fights like you write, W. would kick his butt.  Next time try spell check.  

It's good they have something to look up too.  Since thier decline crime has shot up in thier country as well as broken into so many "istan" countries. Dont forget black market deals in weapons and nuclear devices. Yeehaw Way to go to make it look good while falling apart.

Judging by the sheer idiocy and inanity of the comments posted to this story, the American people have no right to complain about their Governement - be it Democratic or Republican.  The petty bickering and uninformed, biased and ignorant comments are truly disgusting to someone who takes the time to learn the facts and doesn't listen the rightists or the leftists and their pre-packaged, homogenized political quips and sound bites. SHAME!

MY MONEY IS ON MY PRESIDENT MIKE G.  IN A FAIR INTELLIGENCE MATCH BETWEEN YOU AND PRES.BUSH MY MONEY IS  STILL ON MY PRESIDENT.

you are going to be seeing alot more of him in the future or hearing about him.i think he is showing us that russia is stronger than most people think.you know in the last couple of weeks their bombers are flying again in places they used to fly during the cold war.putin is going to be around a long time but that maybe ok for russia.we need to keep a close lokk on their military build up though especially with china we could be headed back to some cool relationships if we arnt already

So typical. The guy takes off his shirt, and suddenly his oppressive tactics are forgotten. Yeah, we got a real substantial world here. Haha. We suck. Media has made us all sheep who praise or critique the wrong people. If ya wanna talk fitness or shape, Bush is in far superior shape and older than Putin to boot. But he's Bush, so no one (media filled slush minds, that is) gives him credit for it. Karl Rove schemed to get Bush his fitness and health. Must be! Long live the stupidity!! It sells like no other.  

Do not forget about Putin's activities on the background: turning down of the democracy institutions in Russia, killing political opponents and journalists, making the juridicial system obedient to the KGB (yes, KGB, NKVD, GPU - nothing has changed). Enough praising Putin, better compare him to Hugo Chaves (best friend), Asad, Kaddafi, Castro etc.

Whether its for PR, good or bad. He did it. You gotta smile a little bit. Sure, there are hundreds of issues, but when you look past all of it, what would YOU do? HAHA, I would do that! I hope he gets a myspace! hahahha

Good for him! He looks very dashing might I add. Does it really matter where he is from? He is a beautiful man with a healthy body, why not show everyone what he has? He doesn't seem to have anything to hide.

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