I think Putin's popularity was genuine when he first came to power. He was seen as a welcome relief from the Yeltsin era. — Masha Gessen Copy Share Image
Russian strategy seems to center on maintaining Putin's popularity at home; building a strong military capacity in special forces, nuclear weapons, and advanced submarines; pressuring nearby nations to join various defense and customs pacts dominated by Russia; and pushing back… — James G. Stavridis Copy Share Image
