According to data in the article below, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin�s approval rating has reached unprecedented highs. Against a background of predictions that Putin would last as PM for only a short period, this news is significant. It demonstrates, in the words one the Russian classic, �the mysterious Russian soul.� Although there are many explanations for the increases in Putin�s rating, the main question is: what will happen next? In answer to this question, the article discusses two answers. First, Putin is �subjectless�: nobody knows his plans. His rating mainly reflects the Russian people�s wish to get a revenge�for defeat in Chechnya, for criticism by the West and for the loss of super-power status. Second, it seems that the PM has reached the peak of his popularity. After a peak can only come a fall. This may happen as the comparatively favorable economic situation which helped Putin greatly is replaced by industrial stagnation. On the other hand, the revenge ideology may die out, especially when the Prime Minister proves �subjectless�. Will Vladimir Putin then be able to offer anything new?
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