Putin "cuddles" with Openly Gay Speed Skater

On February tenth, Vladmir Putin was seen attending a victory party for Dutch speed skater Ireen Wust, whom is one of seven openly gay athletes competing in the Sochi olympics.  Interestingly, after congratulating her for her victory, Putin briefly "cuddled" (which is the Dutch term for hugging) Wust and was on his way--a seemingly warm and friendly embrace.  This is interesting because of Russia's notoriously strict gay-laws, and many are speculating as to whether or not he is simply putting on a front, or if the presence of the games hae softened his heart.  

Personally, I believe that Putin is putting on a front, especially since the whole world is watching.  In relation to Hunter's reading "The Discourse of Adversaries," this issue deals with changing morals, as "a completely different approach to public is at stake" (Hunter 143).  It is quite possible that Putin is trying to avoid negative face in the public eye, as he wants to represent his country as a fair and well-liked ruler. Is it likely that Putin will reform his laws on homosexuality and same-sex marriage? Probably not, but whether or not this is true, the answer is bound to be revealed in the months after the Olympics.