PICK OF TODAY’S RADIO

PUTIN, RADIO 4, 11AM

IN THIS sixth of his highly informed eight-part series, Jonny Dymond asks various Putin-watchers to share their ideas on what’s going on behind those cold eyes. Today, they examine Vladimir Putin’s attitude to religion. The Russian leader has his own private chapel, keeps close company with priests, and pours vast amounts of state money into the restoration of the monasteries and churches. He is also a keen observer of rituals — especially if they involve taking his shirt off. Jonny asks a trio of Russia experts, including the BBC’s Lucy Ash, if it is all just window dressing.