2 Sept 2010

Vladimir Putin to drive 1,300 miles across Russia in Lada

He has been pictured fighting fires, shooting whales with a crossbow and piloting a fire fighting plane. His latest endeavour is a slight departure from his usual macho pursuits.

The Russian Prime Minister is undertaking a 1,300-mile road trip across Russia's far east in a humble Lada. (does he? See the video… he he he…)

His journey is designed to showcase the completion of the country's first ever continuous east to west road.

His schedule has fuelled speculation that the 57-year old former KGB spy is out to boost his action man image ahead of a presidential election in 2012 though he has yet to confirm whether he will run for what would be his third term in the Kremlin.

Telegraph