Vladimir Putin is the ucrrent leader of Russia. In Russia, Putin's leadership has mostly enjoyed considerable popularity, with generally high approval ratings.[18] However, many of his actions have been characterised by the domestic opposition as undemocratic.[19] Western observers and organisations have also voiced criticism of Putin's leadership. The 2011 Democracy Index stated that Russia has been in "a long process of regression culminated in a move from a hybrid to an authoritarian regime" under Putin,[20] and American diplomatic cables leaked by WikiLeaks allege that Russia has become a "virtual mafia state" due to systematic corruption in Putin's governance.[21][22] Some critics describe him as a dictator,[23][24][25] allegations which Putin adamantly denies. Putin publicly projects an adventurous, macho image via taking part in unusual or dangerous activities; some of these publicity stunts have occasionally been criticised. A keen practitioner of martial arts, Putin has played a major role in the development of sport in Russia, notably, helping Sochi to win the bid for the 2014 Winter Olympics.