U.S. Vice President JD Vance recently characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as more soft-spoken than commonly perceived by the American media. Speaking on Fox News, Vance described Putin as deliberate and careful, emphasizing that he fundamentally looks out for Russia's interests as he sees them. Vance noted he has never met Putin in person but has communicated with him by phone. His remarks, which were echoed by Russian state media, have sparked discussion and debate within Washington, with some observers noting the unusual tone of Vance’s comments given the current geopolitical tensions.