MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin today revealed he often sits at his desk for hours “just, you know, messing around with” Google Maps. The free mapping service from U.S.-based Google allows Mr. Putin to plot possible invasion scenarios. The map then provides helpful tips about routes, traffic, weather and binding international agreements.
“Mr. Putin will spend hours with his laptop at the Kremlin Starbucks playing with the Google Maps tool,” said Anatyla Vodkavov, the president’s senior aide in charge of apps and downloads. “It’s a fun and informative way to plan an invasion or your next family vacation.”
Mr. Putin also used Google Maps to layout the various Winter Olympic venues in Sochi, including the bobsled course, Vodkavov added.
Rock City Times Russian Bureau Chief Anton Vladislav recently acquired a screenshot of one of Mr. Putin’s brainstorming sessions. (Click image to view full size.)
A source within the Obama administration, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Pentagon prefers Bing maps.
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