Vladimir Makarov is the leader of the Red Special Forces.  Successor of Imran Zakhaev.  Makarov is cruel, cold-blooded and will stop at nothing to achieve his goals, even resorting to the most vile and treacherous acts to do this.  Unprincipled.  He has the gift of persuasion and leadership qualities.  Masterfully masters hand-to-hand combat techniques, firearms and melee weapons.  Quite cunning and most likely has the skills to survive in extreme conditions.  Physically strong. 