I'd say he's more on the master troll level than he is a pussy.

Ex-KGB who seized control of Russia and his government thanks him as they extend his rule. No pussy here.

I remember a story about how Russians deal with terrorists. If this isn't true, someone can correct me. I heard that some terrorists took some people hostage in the Middle East, including several Russian citizens. They sent out demands. The Russians responded by telling the terrorists they knew who they were, they knew where their families were, and they would kill their families unless they released the Russian hostages. The hostages were released.

Again, I can't verify this story. But it sounds right. The man does know how to inspire the appropriate level of respect in his subjects.

I also have a feeling China has been behind the Russiagate conspiracy nonsense from the beginning. "Hey, rook over there!"