A friend of democracy and freedom or a man determined to usher in a modern form of Stalinism?
The answer depends on who is describing Vladimir Putin, the newly elected president of Russia.
Russia is at a crossroads, and Putin, 47, a former KGB agent, can either solidify the nation or add to its instability. He has the stature to successfully fight crime and corruption and restore pride in the country. But the task of putting Russia on solid economic footing is a daunting one.
Rampant corruption and special interests sabotaged many of former President Boris Yeltsin's efforts to create a competitive market system. And some of those who have been leeching off Russia's distorted capitalism are part of Putin's power base. His reliance on ex-KGB officers and business oligarchs is cause for concern.
How Putin deals with those who have been putting Russia at risk by pandering to their own self-interests will be critical in determining the direction his administration takes. Some critics claim he is a Russian Napoleon who is a secret Communist and danger to democracy.
So far, Putin has sent mixed signals. He has pledged to protect democracy as well as the market reforms that have been fitfully emerging from Russia's state-controlled economy. However, he also has called for a strong central government and has strengthened the security services, two hallmarks of bygone Soviet eras.
Putin is viewed as resolute, vigorous and sober as compared to the unpredictable and often ailing Yeltsin. While his KGB past and his stance regarding Chechnya — his aggressive handling of Moscow's war in Chechnya is where he gained his popularity — unnerves the West, many analysts see him as pragmatic, believing he will work with the West.
A number of nations expressed confidence that Putin's victory as Russia's second-ever democratically elected president will mean a more democratic Russia.
The United States is taking an appropriate wait-and-see attitude regarding the change from Yeltsin to Putin. It needs to support Putin's efforts for continuing reform while encouraging him to resolve the conflict with Chechnya.
Countries are lining up to curry his favor, including China. "Let our two countries be good neighbors, good partners and good friends for generations," Chinese President Jiang Zemin said in a message of congratulations that was carried by China's official Xinhua News Agency.
This is a critical time for Putin and Russia. Coming into power he can set an agenda that champions democracy and reform with the support of the United States and other nations.
To turn backward toward a modified version of Communism would not only be foolish but would waste a tremendous opportunity to implement democratic and economic reforms.