In Midst of Winter Olympics, Views of Putin in Russia and the U.S.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been an important figure on the world stage for nearly 15 years. During that time, both Americans and Russians have had a complex relationship with the one-time KGB operative. In the last year, Putin has positioned Russia as an aggressive player on the world stage -- whether in instituting anti-gay policies, proposing a solution to chemical weapons in Syria, allowing Edward Snowden asylum, or writing a controversial op-ed in The New York Times.

Thursday on Gallup.com, we will publish two articles: the first looking at Americans' perceptions of Putin and Russia, and the second exploring Putin's standing among Russians themselves. The findings should illuminate the changing opinions about this fascinating leader.

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