From Bush Jr to Erdogan: What Foreign Politicians Think About Putin
French President Emmanuel Macron has described Vladimir Putin as "a very strong man" and "a strong president" and whose people are "proud of his policy." Sputnik has recalled how other foreign politicians described the Russian president.
Since 2000, a lot of politicians have shed light on what they think about the personality of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Sputnik invites you to remember what other heads of state and foreign policy chiefs had to say about Putin.
1. George W. Bush
"I looked the man in the eye. I found him to be very straightforward and trustworthy. We had a very good dialogue. I was able to get a sense of his soul. He's a man deeply committed to his country and the best interests of his country."
2. Hillary Clinton
"He was a KGB agent. By definition he doesn't have a soul."
3. Gerhard Schroeder
“I believe him, and I'm convinced that he is” - in response to the question 'Is Putin an exemplary democrat?'
4. Donald Trump
"Look at Putin – what he's doing with Russia – I mean, you know, what's going on over there. I mean this guy has done – whether you like him or don't like him – he's doing a great job in rebuilding the image of Russia and also rebuilding Russia period."
5. Recep Tayyip Erdogan
“The fact that Mr. Putin called me the next day after the coup attempt was a very strong psychological factor. The axis of friendship between Moscow and Ankara will be restored.”
6. Barack Obama
“Putin is slouching … looking like that bored schoolboy in the back of the classroom.”
