You are absolutely correct. Vodka is killing Russian men. Most die before age 60. And Putin knows that capitalism needs growth. That means thay need more babies. Lots more.
I have just as much access to vodka as any Russian. I can go out right now and fill my trunk with bottles of vodka. But, guess what? I have no interest in doing so.
The problem with Russian men is not vodka. The problem is the despair for their futures that has them thinking that vodka is the solution. Men with goals and dreams, and hope that they can reach them, have little need for vodka.