In the old days. the Soviet Union was a authoritarian state ruled by the leader of the Communist party. But he was, after Stalin at least, not a despot who con

In the old days. the Soviet Union was a authoritarian state ruled by the leader of the Communist party. But he was, after Stalin at least, not a despot who controlled everyone around him. There were some checks and balances I believe. With Putin I don't think there are any. That is what scares me.