Russian prime minister hails US actor’s perilous journey to tiger summit. Prime Minister Vladimir Putin described Oscar-nominated actor and environmental advocate Leonardo DiCaprio as a hero as he arrived to make his US$1 million pledge in person at the International Forum on Tiger Conservation, despite hazardous challenges during his travel to St. Petersburg. Mr. DiCaprio was initially flying on a plane that had to turn back due to an engine fire. He was then forced to make a stop in Finland as his jet had almost run out of fuel, having endured stormy winds over the Atlantic.

Prime Minister Putin stated, “Mr. DiCaprio has not just come to us, but simply burst through the frontline. Excuse me if you may, but in our country people usually say, ‘That's what we call a real man.’ And I think that if people with such character would be responsible for defending nature, or the tiger in this particular case, we're destined for success.” During the summit, more than US$100 million was pledged by various countries and organizations to help save highly endangered tiger populations in Europe and Asia.

We, too, salute Mr. Leo DiCaprio for your persistent determination to contribute to this landmark summit. May your shining star continue to illuminate both the plight and the beauty of these and all magnificent animal co-inhabitants, for their respect and protection by all.