Obama really knows his foreign policy and the positions leaders in other countries hold. NOT!
MOSCOW (Reuters) - In a slip of the tongue, U.S. President Barack Obama described Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Monday as president, echoing the widely held view that he remains Russia's most powerful man.
Putin surrendered the presidency to protege Dmitry Medvedev last May to take the lesser post of prime minister, but most political analysts say Putin remains Russia's ultimate decision maker.
The dual leadership has left foreign leaders to walk a difficult diplomatic tightrope. In line with protocol Obama met Medvedev ahead of talks with the lower ranking Putin.
At a news conference Obama gave a carefully worded reply about the effectiveness of the leadership tandem when a U.S. journalist bluntly asked "who is really in charge here in Russia?"
But minutes later, speaking about Medvedev's objections to a controversial missile defense system planned for central Europe, Obama slipped:
"I suspect when I speak to President..eh.. Prime Minister Putin tomorrow, he will say the same thing." (Writing by Conor Humphries; Editing by Richard Williams;)
1 comment:
Patrick Henry sazs:
Tom Ognibene was the former councilman for the 30th council district. Although he served his community well there are some concerns regarding some serious entanglements. In 2001, Ognibene was under investigation for his relationship with buildings consultant, Ronald Lattanzio. It was reported in the NY Times: Councilman's Actions Factor in Inquiry that in exchange for Ognibene’s assistance and political influence to help fix government variances, jobs and investigations in Lattanzio’s favor, the former councilman would receive entertainment, tickets, vacations, gifts, meals, campaign contributions, campaign activities and other services. Although no charges were brought Ognibene, his quest for a judgeship was squashed. In addition, there were reported shenanigans going on at Christ the King that included the sale of “questionable” memorabilia. Residents are also concerned about Ognibene’s health and ability to muster the strength for this special election. I think we can agree that Ognibene had his chance to represent the district; however, the 30th council district deserves a chance for new leadership.
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