Vladimir Vladimirovich...Russia’s Marlboro Man? You’re thinking “You gotta be kidding Macker, right?” Нет, my friends, I’m not kidding.
Pooty took a trip to Siberia (yes, it does have a summer season) and decided to commune closer to God by riding a horse, doing some fishin’, and strippin’ down to his bare chest. He’s doing this for a reason.
Consider: earlier this week, RAF fighters intercepted a Russian Tu-95M “Bear” long-range strategic bomber flying once again on patrols over the North Atlantic. Now this. Putin...and by extension, Russia, are asserting their desire to be counted once again among the Great Powers.
Of course, they’ve got a ways to go, and they gotta cut out the bulls**t deals with Iran and the Axis of Evil™, but that’s beside the point. ”SEE! We’re MANLY Men too!”

Macker I read recently that the Ruskies plan on spending 100 Billion over ten years to upgrade their military. However I have also read Mark Steyn’s excellent analysis of Russia and the long term doesn’t look too bright. Surrounded by muslims and with a collapsing birth rate, rampant alcoholism and people dying in their 50’s they are screwed. I just hope they don’t throw their weight around in the next few years because I can’t see any of the Euroweenies standing up to them and I think Uncle Sam is unlikely to come riding to the rescue.