Even though most people in the US don't understand why, Putin is really liked in Russia.

I guess those same people will have a lesson on what it's like to have a leader most of the world doesn't like/respect/understand :)

It's very hard for people to step into the perception of another locale. One of the examples I see is in Congress, people often lament members of Congress and wonder why they continually get reelected. But while everyone else all over the country may hate that Congressman, there's a pretty good chance the locals love him and feel that he's representing their community well.