In 1995, Russia virtually gave Chechnya de facto statehood and independence even though, de jure, it didn't recognize Chechnya as an independent state. And I would like to emphasize strongly that Russia withdrew all of its troops, we moved the prosecutors, we moved all the police, dismantled all the courts, completely, 100 percent.

— Vladimir Putin

I spend a little time every day to play sports.

— Vladimir Putin

I think every person should have some faith inside him, in his heart. What matters is not an external display of this faith, but the inner state of the soul.

— Vladimir Putin

I think happiness is love.

— Vladimir Putin

It is extremely dangerous to encourage people to see themselves as [inherently] exceptional, whatever the motivation. There are big countries and small countries, rich and poor, those with long democratic traditions and those still finding their way to democracy. Their policies differ, too. We are all different, but when we ask for the Lord’s blessings, we must not forget that God created us equal.

— Vladimir Putin

Journalism, as concerns collecting information, differs little if at all from intelligence work. In my judgment, a journalist's job is very interesting.

— Vladimir Putin

My notion of the KGB came from romantic spy stories. I was a pure and utterly successful product of Soviet patriotic education.

— Vladimir Putin

My working and personal relationship with President Obama is marked by growing trust. I appreciate this.

— Vladimir Putin

Our military might is the guarantor of Russia's security and independence.

— Vladimir Putin

Politics should not interfere with sports. And sports should impact politics.

— Vladimir Putin