Rapper's Putin tattoo ignites trend amid Russia's controversial vote
Russian rapper Jacques-Anthony recently made waves by getting a tattoo of Vladimir Putin on his forearm, earning praise for his "patriotic" gesture. This move even inspired a woman to get a similar tattoo of Putin, this time on her chest. Such acts highlight the lengths some people will go to show support for their president.
As Russia's sham presidential elections draw near, international observers are under no illusion—Vladimir Putin, the incumbent dictator, is expected to win by a landslide. The only question seems to be by how much. Will Putin secure over 80 percent of the vote?
In the midst of what seems to be a guaranteed victory, Putin has not shied away from campaigning. In a recent statement, he likened himself to God. Seizing the opportunity for media attention amidst the election fervor, Russian rapper Jacques-Anthony has decided to outwardly show his adoration for Putin.
At 32, Jacques-Anthony has chosen to express his support for the Russian leader in a distinct “rapper style.” He proudly shared his new forearm tattoo—the face of Vladimir Putin—on social media.
The first individuals to echo the rapper's propagandist enthusiasm for the Kremlin have emerged. Among them is a woman who opted for an unconventional canvas—a tattoo of the Russian president on her chest. This incident was brought to light on the X(Twitter) platform by Anton Heraszczenko.
"Russian rapper Jacques-Anthony showcased his Putin tattoo, delighting many Russians. A fan from the 'Putin units' also emblazoned her chest with Putin's image. It surprisingly suits the location. One might wonder if Medvedev bears a Putin tattoo. If so, where?" Heraszczenko shared.
The authenticity of the woman's chest tattoo remains uncertain. Though it appears painted on in the video, she confidently displays it and even encourages people to vote—naturally, for Putin.
"I stand with Jacques-Anthony and his cool tattoo of Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin today. Such bravery and determination are admirable. Look at me! We're voting for Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. He is our president, now and forever," the woman with the tattoo proclaims in the video.
Russia's "elections" for president are scheduled for March 15-17, with residents in occupied Ukrainian territories given the "privilege" to vote a day early. The outcome is a foregone conclusion. With Putin set to maintain his iron grip on power, tattoos celebrating the dictator are likely to be a lasting trend.
