Putin Says Russian Passport Would Be "Done Deal" for Gerard Depardieu

The exodus from France's oppressive tax regime continues

French actor Gérard Depardieu, under fierce criticism for going into self-imposed tax exile in Belgium, would be more than welcome in Russia, the country's President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.

"If Gérard really wants a residency permit or a Russian passport, it's a done deal," Putin said at a press conference. "We have very friendly relations [with Depardieu], but I know that deep down he feels French."