“It was the most blatant example of shit-faced ignorance and pig-headed arrogance the world has seen since the likes of Hitler or Pol Pot.”
The physical threat made by Prime Minister Tony Abbott has become fodder for Russia's media in the lead-up to the G20 conference.
An editorial writer for Pravda, Timothy Bancroft-Hinchey wrote of Mr Abbott's "shirtfront" comments, "It was the most blatant example of shit-faced ignorance and pig-headed arrogance the world has seen since the likes of Hitler or Pol Pot."
"It's difficult to find a more blatant example of childishness, incompetence … criminal intent, downright nastiness and… a disturbed mind crying out for therapy."
Bancfroft-Hinchey's piece appeared on the English language version of the state broadcaster and the writer also gave several Australian media interviews on Wednesday.
The op-ed was in response to Mr Abbott's comments earlier this week, where he promised to violently confront Mr Putin about the downing of MH17.
A "shirtfront" is an Aussie Rules term to illegally collide with another football player while their head is down over the ball.
Mr Abbott walked back the comments yesterday, claiming he'd be having "robust conversations" with Mr Putin during the G20.
