I don’t think anyone contends Russia has free and fair elections, or the protections of the Bill of Rights.
But I don’t think anyone could argue that the Russian government doesn’t represent the wishes of the majority of the Russian people.
Even Gallup reports a 80+% approval/support for Putin.
Yes a little more than “polls” gave Hillary prior to Trump’s win. :)
But from personal expedience, if I were Russian and someone phoned or questioned me I’d be afraid to say my actual opinion anyway. And also, I’d know my options are limited: its Putin and ____ - I don’t have real choices.
Well, it only means they THINK he does represent them, all the while raping the annual budget for himself and others.