lifestyle leader

Yesterday, I talked about Russian President Medvedev's vision for reform and the challenges this presents for both he and Prime Minister Putin. If Medvedev follows through on his agenda, you can easily foresee a confrontation with his mentor ahead of the 2012 elections. Putin is a shrewd, some might say ruthless, operator, who no doubt understands the need to quickly counter his protege's challenge by setting out his own manifesto.

So how did Putin respond? With a vigorous defense of his economic record and authoritarian consolidation? Nope. A shirtless romp through Siberia? Closer. Attending a hip-hop awards show and schooling the youth on the proper b-boy lifestyle? Yep. Above anything else, we all know Putin is straight-up gangsta (literally?). From Reuters:

"I do not think that 'top-rock' or 'down-rock' breakdance technique is compatible with alcohol or drugs," Putin told cheering hip-hoppers who responded with chants of "Respect, Vladimir Vladimirovich."

Respect, indeed.