I do remember the launch starting a space-race between USSR & America.
Well we have Russian advisers now. They last advised us to jump on trampolines. Which is a better plan than helping Muslims feel better about themselves. So Russia is definitely winning.
Russia had the first man in space, too.
It's Russian technology keeping the space station up there.
Moon Landing?? What did we gain?? Ego?? Big deal.
Work with the Russians. The benefit is a two way street.