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That's not even funny (I'm Russian). There was zero allegiance while mass media was even half-free. After 15 years of state monopoly on TV most people are actua

• mc32 9y ago
  While Putin did suppress the opposition, opposition figures readily admit that had there been free elections Putin would have still won, just not by as much. I like the guardian somewhat, but you gotta know who the guardian are. Not disputing your take --but you and I must know a diff set of people. [Should Russia return Crimea, should they give Japan the Ryukus --some small insignificant islets] Also, amongst Russians, there are different waves of emigres. Some waves forsook everything upon leaving, those emigres by their nature, have a different view than other waves.
  • lokopodium 9y ago
    I edited the above comment with the correct article. It's pointless to argue about free election outcome without free access to media. In any western country, an investigation alleging president's friends funneling billions of tax money offshore would be in every news issue. Brazil got rid of a president over much much less. How can you call it an election if you can't get any airtime, are convicted in a kangaroo court and your brother is in prison?