The nomenklatura remained in charge of Russia even after the disappearance of the Soviet Union. There was no real change as in Eastern Europe to people who did not have any ties to past. Those in Russia today still do and still see their country as a successor to the Soviet Union.
"Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached." - Manuel II Palelologus