"Czar Putin" By: Patricia Smith Response

Many people around the world consider the president of Russia, Vladimir Putin, “the most dangerous man in the world.  In the article “Czar Putin” by Patricia Smith, the author claims that some people even believe that he is “a ruthless dictator trampling on democracy”.  Although many consider him as a dangerous man, “87 percent of Russians support Putin and his policies.”  According to Patricia Smith the relationship between the United States and Russia has “deteriorated to their lowest point since the Cold War”.  This, Patricia Smith claims, prevents “the U.S. and Russia to cooperate on many important global issues such as the civil war in Syria, fighting Islamic terrorism, and preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.”  After witnessing the collapse of the Soviet Union, most Russians were relieved when Putin became president in 1999.  Although, after Putin became president he was not the man many people once considered him to be.

In the article, Patricia Smith attempts to show readers how Putin is broadcasting his power.  Smith includes a visual in which Putin is found “out for a shirtless horse ride”.  Smith explains how the picture symbolizes his “macho image”.  She then includes that he has posed “with tigers” and “showing of his judo skills”.  Smith also explains that after becoming president, “Putin began gradually consolidating political power, tightening controls over the press, and passing local laws that give authorities more power to crack down on anti-government street demonstrations.”  By doing this, Putin is showing the people of Russia just how much power he has.  Smith then continues to explain how Putin has managed to hold his presidency for three terms.  Putin appointed a successor that appointed him as the prime minister.  By doing this, Putin was able to take control “from behind the scenes.”  In 2012, Putin won the presidential election and therefore received a third term in office.

In response to what I read, I believe that a man who uses his power in such manners is not suited to be president.  He has controlled the life of Russians, and he has gambled his way into presidency for three terms.  He has even deprived the citizens of their right for free speech; he has passed a bill that criminalizes street protests.  I wonder if the people of Russia will ever wake up from their oblivion and realize that Putin has too much power.  I also wonder what the future of Russia will have in store.