*They asked me to describe VVP (Vladimir Putin) in a few words from the standpoint of drawing his likeness. I said, "The main thing about him is that little duck-like nose." They stopped me: "Alexei, people in the Kremlin get very offended when you talk about them so condescendingly. Now, when they're called bloody executioners, they swell with self-importance. But then you come along with your 'little ducks.' Let's try that again..." I said, "All right. VVP has the little duck-like nose of an executioner..." *Interview with Merinov in New Times I remember subscribing to Moskovsky Komsomolets in school. I'd get the paper and immediately flip to his cartoon.