Putin as a master manipulator

[President Johnson]

I detest Putin, but I understand why Russia clings to him after barely surviving Yeltsin.

Putin was appointed by Yeltsin.

I'm aware of that. That doesn't negate the fact that the average Russian life is much better under Putin than Yeltsin.

"much better" is too strong a term. A little bit better for ordinary people. And much better for magnates, Putin accomplices, and a number of government officials. Living standards in Russia are lower than in Baltic states. Under Putin social inequality has been increasing tremendously, currently being one of the highest in the world.

The issue is that with the West, Putin has created an enemy while giving himself that "strong man image" to stay in power. He was no interest in real detente with the West. He may have early in his term, but, if that was ever the case, given up a long time.