There is one incontestably great actor on the world stage today, and he has no interest in following our script.

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin — soon to be Russia's president again — has proven remarkably effective at playing the weak strategic hand he inherited, chalking up triumph after triumph while confirming himself as the strong leader Russians crave.

Not one of his international peers evidences so profound an understanding of his or her people, or possesses Putin's canny ability to size up counterparts.