This is just weird.

Addendum: Believe it or not, there’s an online poll about this at the Things That Make You Go ‘Hmm’ blog.

Addendum, 7/9/06: Speaking of Putin, this National Journal overview of Russian politics, history and society at this point in history packs a lot of insight into a short piece. I recommend it.

It doesn’t explain the “touch[ing] like a kitten” bit, though.

Hat tip: Flit.