>>>>>>>> I believe Putin/Medvedev are leading Russia into becoming modern democracy.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Wow. And as I remember you also believe the CIA or the Mossad or somebody did 911 (or that it was faked in a Hollywood studio ? ... can't remember now )
>>>>>
>>>>>Charles,

>>>>
>>>>I was commenting that your belief in Putin's intentions struck me as having the same quaility of analysis and knowledge of the world as your beliefs about the events of 9/11. Amusing but difficult to take seriously.
>>>
>>>This was cheap shot by all means.
>>
>>I didn't intend it as a cheap shot. I intended it as my opinion of your analysis of two things - Putin as interested in making Russia a 'modern democracy'
>>
>>Seeing Putin as a strongman/oligarch who has skillfully seized power, controlled media, become one of the richest men in the world in oil and natural resources, enriched his cadre of former KGB folks, maintained power through his successor etc is hardly a fringe position and is certainly shared by a large number of Russians. I doubt even his fans would think his intention was to 'democratize' Russia (and would abandon him if it were) I am not judging him other than that - he's a Russian nationalist and I have no problem with the idea he is doing what he thinks is best for Russia (which, coincidentally is what is best for Putin and his supporters) Russia has seen worse.
>>
>>The idea that this impression of Putin is somehow 'right-wing' is in itself amusing, given that he represents what could arguably be called Russia's 'right-wing'.
>
>
>I'm sure they are extending the presidential terms from 4 years to 6 simply because they love democracy. :o)

And if that works out, they could move toward *real* modern democracy with a President for Life.