milkchaser

Russia: Now vs. 1998

Only 44% (so far). I feel so much better. Add to Vanderpool's list the insecurity of property over there (i.e. what Putin wants he takes, e.g. BP and Mechel).

Russia Looks Better on Paper Than in Real Life

"Adjsut for standard of living and you will arrive to the conclusion that living standards there are not far off those in the USA"

I think you mean "adjust for cost of living". That said, I disagree. Little things like reliably delivered electricity and water and better quality available goods make US more desirable. Also, there's something to be said for less corruption, more freedom of speech and free elections. It's not quantifiable, but they're part of one's standard of living. US has it. Putin's subjects do not.

If US standard of living and Russia's are comparable, why are Americans not flocking to get in to Russia? Learning Russian is arguably easier than learning English (though not nearly as useful outside Eastern Europe).

I love Russia. It's sad to see it revert to belligerence and state control.