The Q's are blind as always. In Red October a 'KGB officer' Putin is killed just like the real Putin died around 2011 or so.
But in our world a new 'Putin' is elected President in 2012. Seemingly taking up the mantle as the new villain as NATO is short on enemies.
With a shift in domestic and foreign policies more dramatic than the so-called plastic surgery.
And a complete change in demeanor and public appearances more in line with how the west portrays him.
You could almost say he's an actor playing a part on the global stage.