Putin Shows Some Skin in Siberia

Vladimir Putin stripped to the waist for photographers while visiting a remote, rugged region of Siberia, cultivating the macho image that has helped him remain Russia's most popular leader more than a year after stepping down as president.

Putin, now the prime minister, rode a horse bare-chested and swam the butterfly in an icy river while visiting the Tuva region of southern Siberia.

He also posed for photographers while sitting in a tree, wearing khaki pants and T-shirt with a canvas bush hat.

Putin's visit earlier this week was a return trip to the area where he and Prince Albert II of Monaco vacationed two years ago.

Photographs taken then of Putin stripped to the waist produced a storm of gossip and speculation. Putin was nearing the end of his second presidential term and had not yet announced his future plans. Some saw the public display of his muscular torso as a sign he had no intention of giving up power.

As prime minister, with direct responsibility for Russia's hard-hit economy, Putin has been determined to show ordinary Russians that he understands their difficulties and can bring Russia through the hard times.

In Tuva, Putin visited the home of a shepherd and rode a horse with the shepherd's young son. After the ride, Putin took off his Swiss watch and gave it to the boy.

"See that you don't lose it," Putin said as he put it on the boy's wrist, telling him that he should tighten the band. He then patted the boy on the back and shook his hand.