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Russian President Vladimir Putin cut a lonely figure today after he was spotted wandering by himself through the streets of St Petersburg.
The Russian leader was seen pensively walking through the city following the funeral of his Judo instructor Anatoly Rakhlin. Putin marched on wearing a moody look and avoiding eye contact, while his aides and security rushed to catch up with him.
Putin is known to be a master in the dojo when it comes to Judo and it is clear that the death of Rakhlin has affected him deeply. Rakhlin had reportedly been battling a long illness and considered himself to be a second father to the President.
Putin's behaviour today contrasts sharply with the more macho persona he usually likes to portray in the media. He is known for his outlandish displays of prowess, from piano playing to bear hunting there is nothing that is beyond him.
Most recently Putin was seen delving into the depths below to inspect the ruins of Russian sailing frigate which sunk in 1869.
Reader Comments
A 'good' sign, no? And hopefully he doesn't do like Mike Tyson after his coach's death, but Vladi must know he just can't do a 'walkabout' anymore, especially in these trying times, though a little breath of fresh air before the storm arrives is always a good idea.
Hmm...
Was it a spare of the moment thing? Completely deserted streets during daytime? Strange. The area must have been cleared beforehand.
Was it a spare of the moment thing? Completely deserted streets during daytime? Strange. The area must have been cleared beforehand.
It is clear that the roads were cleared in order for Putin to take his pensive stroll...his security had to move quick. Notice how the traffic was held back on his approach to the waterfront section and how the security scurries around him. It was clearly a surprise act as the guy that opened the car door for him had no clue what he was about to do. Fact is, here is a world leader publicly grieving and fearlessly walking down the streets of his city. Publicity stunt or not. Imagine POTUS or Cameron doing that kind of spur o' the moment thing. What are the chances?
In the book by Barbara Bush, her memoirs, she describes very briefly where she is playing golf the day after the death of her daughter.
At least he is not playing a round of golf, and seems to be genuinely affected by the death of a friend.