Vladimir Putin, who was born in Leningrad in 1952, is the current President of Russia. He has also been the Prime Minister of Russia, the Leader of United Russia, and the Director of the Federal Security Service. The Russian Orthodox believes that Russia should be a country that is strong and powerful on a global stage.
Here are 10 interesting facts about Vladimir Putin:
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #1:
Despite having a strong presence in the international community, the Russian leader does not stand physically tall. In fact, he is only 5′ 5″.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #2:
The Russian politician has had an impressive political career. Moreover, he is a former Deputy Mayor of St. Petersburg and a former Deputy Chief of Staff, under the leadership of Boris Yeltsin.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #3:
He is an athletically-gifted individual. In fact, Vladimir Putin is a great swimmer, enjoys horseback riding, and works out for many hours every week.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #4:
Vladimir Putin was in the KGB as an agent for 15 years. He finally retired from the intelligence service in 1990.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #5:
Another interesting fact about Vladimir Putin is he became the youngest ever Russian head of state in 2003.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #6:
The current President of Russia believes that Elton John is an immensely talented musician. In the words of Putin, “Elton John, he’s an extraordinary person, a distinguished musician. And millions of our people sincerely love him, regardless of his sexual orientation.”
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #7:
Time magazine has thought highly of the well-known former Prime Minister of Russia. In fact, the magazine ranked him as the “Person of the Year” in 2007.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #8:
Many people believe that Vladimir Putin closely resembles a character from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Dolby the house elf.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #9:
The former Leader of United Russia is also gifted in martial arts. More specifically, he has earned a black belt in judo.
10 Interesting Facts About Vladimir Putin #10:
The last fact about the former KGB officer is he has spoken out against homosexuality. He believes, “Russia and European countries have a big problem, the birth rate is low, Europeans are dying out. Same-sex marriages do not produce children.”
Sources:
Breanna Edwards, “10 facts about Vladimir Putin,” Politico.
Carol J. Williams, “Vladimir Putin, Russia’s human tank,” Los Angeles Times.
“Vladimir Putin Biography,” Biography.com.
