Origins of Misperceptions: To those who will question my comments regarding misconceptions of Russia, I understand your position. We all were (still are) indoctrinated to view Russia as “bad”. In books, movies, “news”, or “history” classes Russia and Russians are frequently portrayed negatively. Take movies for instance. Research shows that even if people know the reality of something, they rely on remembrance of the movie version. Examples: “John Wick” – Russian gangsters or “The Equalizer” – degenerate Russian gangsters; “U-571” – who actually captured the enigma machine? “The Last Samurai” – were any Americans even involved in Japan’s Meiji Restoration? [spoiler – the British and no.]

Russia since December 1991: In the late-nineties I had the opportunity to work in former Soviet countries such as Poland and Czech Republic. Decades of neglect were still everywhere. People grappled with the transition from planned / government business to capitalist systems. By 2000, cities such as Prague had remarkably improved. [Great city of course. It’s where I met my wife.] As for Russia, the transition was catastrophic. However, the changes that began to occur once Vladimir Putin became president have been dramatic. I know because I have witnessed them personally over many years.

What the attributes of a “perfect country” are is open to informed opinion. As someone who has traveled the world extensively, I do feel confident that I know what a “sh*thole” country is like. Russia is not one.

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