Putin = Total Badass to the Max

Of course! The most compelling evidence is installing his handpicked successor, who in turn appointed him to his current post (premier). A strong, autocratic leader in the venerable Russian style of Catherine, Ivan, Peter and Stalin — combining authority, leadership and (more than) a hint of malice.

There is a huge and growing literature on the (abortive) transition to democracy in Russia. Very interesting stuff. Best introduction is probably browsing through The Economist, Foreign Policy, and Journal of Democracy.