I don't "hate" Russia. They were our ally in both WWI and WWII.
Before the end of WWII the US, USSR, Brits, Germany and Japan were all trying to develop the atomic bomb.
The US did it first, and the USSR tried to stay even in capability until 1989 and the breakup.
Better leaders should be able to lower tensions. We (should have) the mutual cause to fight Islamic expansion.
For Putin to lead Russia is no different than for GHW Bush to lead the US (former head of CIA).