Maybe you had more pull at the consulate than anyone I have known, and that is how you were able to get visas. That said, neither do I see anything wrong with Russians getting tourist visas. I would love to see them be able to visit. However, I do know Russia does not qualify for the
Visa Waiver Program due to the large number of Russians which do not return. Unless they have a strong compelling reason to return they will be denied a visa. Look it up for yourself under Visa Waiver Program. You likely are more familiar with this than myself, but the following is from the website of the Moscow Consulate.
Moscow Consulate: Frequently asked questions
A qualified applicant for a U.S. non-immigrant visa is able to demonstrate binding social, familial, and/or economic ties to Russia which, in the opinion of the consular officer, constitute a compelling need to return to Russia after a temporary visit to the United States. Section 214(b) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act requires a consular officer to presume that a visa applicant intends to immigrate to the United States until the applicant provides sufficient evidence to the contrary. For more information, please see the section on supporting documents that can accompany a visa application.
and
Consular officers must evaluate the qualifications of the visa applicant. Section 214(b) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act requires the consular officer to presume that all applicants for a non-immigrant visa do, in fact, intend to immigrate. Applicants may overcome this presumption by presenting evidence of binding social, familial, and economic ties to Russia that are sufficiently strong to compel the applicant to leave the U.S. after a temporary visit. The burden, therefore, is on the applicant to present such evidence at the time of the visa interview. Assurances from friends, family members or associates in the United States do not affect the applicant’s eligibility for visa issuance.
Once again, I am not doubting that you were able to do this, I am just saying I have known hundreds of men's ladies who have been turned down, and only one approved.
Every resource I've ever used has echoed the same, that it's a guilty until proven innocent interview, and that they must have proof they will return.
They do suggest the following will support your case:
Documents that provide evidence of the applicant’s social, economic, and/or family ties to Russia, as well as correspondence from relatives or business associates you plan to visit, may facilitate the consular officer’s decision. Some examples of documents that may be helpful include:
Evidence of employment. A letter from your employer can be useful.
Evidence of income (and in some cases evidence of your spouse's income), such as earnings statements.
Evidence of immediate family (spouse, children) in Russia.
Evidence of ownership of property.
Evidence of ongoing studies if applicant is still a student.
Evidence of ongoing projects for those in entertainment fields.
Your old passport bearing earlier visas and entry stamps indicating the date on which you returned to Russia (for those who have traveled to the U.S. previously).