Well if their preoccupation with American domestic political matters is of any indication, they seem more obsessive about Western freedom and democracy than Americans! It is attraction to America that is at the root of the obsession. Not unbelief. They may have more faith in our country than we do.
Eh, speaking as an American, I’m not too certain on Western freedom and democracy, especially the latter bit. I see it as no different than Bolshevikism, especially when democracy (not to mention so-called freedom under “Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite” and “total liberty”, which was closer to “total anarchy”) was practiced by the French in the late 18th century. We’re closer to a Republic anyway (there’s a reason why the founding fathers did NOT mention democracy, or even “demo” in their founding documents.).
Still, nice to hear that some Russians aren’t supporting the re-Stalinization of Russia that Putin’s doing (and I know a few Russians, one anyways, she’s a dentist, and based on our interactions has no love for the Communists), and if anything want our method of governance.