I have great respect for Putin, as my comment indicated. Despite this, I am aware I can be fooled, and cannot discount that I have been fooled regarding Putin. I therefore cannot be absolutely sure Putin is anything at all. Even a public vow is no guarantee, as people provably break their word and always have.
Regardless of my understanding of history, Putin is a person. Not only is it impossible to depend on the word of a person, people die, and Putin will die sooner or later. I cannot depend on Putin or anyone to secure my freedom, ever.
Thanks for your bringing this information to my attention.