Is President Medvedev of Russia really just a puppet?

Question

Is Putin, as people seem to say, the real power behind the throne?

Answer 1

This is a generally held concept, do not underestimate the man.

Answer 2

Yes and yes.

Answer 3

Yes, the KGB bullies are still in charge and the Euro-wienies will probably let them continue to intimidate the Georgians.  

Answer 4

More so than Howdy Doody.

Answer 5

That is certainly the perception, but there are some key differences. After 9/11, President Putin shifted Russian foreign policy to align with that of the United States on security matters, especially on the War on Terror. He even allowed the US to use Russian bases in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Putin also worked with NATO, in the NATO-Russia council to co-operate with such activities as sharing intel on heroin trafficking in Afghanistan.

Medvedev has been far more aggressive than Putin towards Russia's neighbors. Medvedev is dissolving many of the ties that Putin tried to make with the West, including the NATO-Russian Council and the prospect of Russia's membership in the WTO.

Answer 6

Yes Puty Pute is still in Charge

Answer 7

I think so.

Answer 8

Probably not a puppet.

More of a clone I would say.  Dobbie from Lord of the rings is still in charge.