Putin Bans Foriegn Same Sex Couples from Adopting Russian Children

A new edict from Vladimir Putin comes on the heels of France’s approval of same sex marriage.  He’s banning foriegn same sex couples from adopting Russian babies.  This is actually self consistent with the internal rules banning gay marriage, and banning unmarried people from adopting within Russia.

It follows the ban on Russian adoptions by any U.S. citizens.

None of the above should come as a surprise from a country which has been battling under-production of new citizens for many years.   The population of native Russians is shrinking.   The government has been trying various incentives to inspire Russian citizens to make more babies.

Obama Tells Russians, Wait Till After He is Reelected

Russia does not like that NATO missile defense system in Eastern Europe. Obama has told outgoing President Medvedev to wait until he’s reelected. (He’ll be able to undermine the U.S. interests any way he wants after that time.)

Here’s the transcript of what was caught on the hot mic.

The exchange was picked up by microphones as reporters were let into the room for remarks by the two leaders.

And here’s the exchange:

President Obama: On all these issues, but particularly missile defense, this, this can be solved but it’s important for him to give me space.

President Medvedev: Yeah, I understand. I understand your message about space. Space for you…

President Obama: This is my last election. After my election I have more flexibility.

President Medvedev: I understand. I will transmit this information to Vladimir.

Moscow’s martial arts fans boo Putin as he steps into the ring | World news | guardian.co.uk

Moscow’s martial arts fans boo Putin as he steps into the ring | World news | guardian.co.uk.

Judo enthusiast Vladimir Putin is a big fan of mixed martial arts, and of heavyweight fighter Fedor Emelianenko.    It’s a  sign of the times that Putin is not loved so much any more.  He attended a fight at Moscow arena, and when he got up into the ring to congratulate victorious Emelianenko,  Putin was ‘greeted with boos and catcalls’.

This doesn’t  bode so well for his campaign for his third term of presidency, but given the nature of politics in Russia, will not affect the election result.