Whatever Stalin and his evil minions did (to both Russians and many other peoples), the Russian people suffered terribly when the Nazis invaded. That the tables got turned on Stalin is a rich historical irony, but millions were killed and murdered for that irony. Besides, Hitler would've invaded Russia no matter whether Stalin was an angel, or the devil that he really was.
Never confuse a people with its government - government is ALWAYS composed at the top of those that are incredibly hungry for power over others.
Russia, being Russia, was not exactly sitting around praising freedom and individuality, when their teammate in conquest and invasion turned on them.
Russians miss their Evil Empire, they even miss their Stalin.
“Why so many Russians still love Stalin To the bafflement of the world, Stalin is remembered quite fondly by millions upon millions of Russians”
“Poll Finds Stalin’s Popularity High”
“Joseph Stalin More Popular In Russia Now Than At End Of Soviet Union, Finds Carnegie Survey”
Russian history, the story of Russians, and history isn’t over yet.