Putin

vladimir putins face on a large screen behind people in the street

The exact impact of sanctions is always difficult to assess in the short-term. But there are signs it is an effective strategy against Russia – and the only real option.

vladimir putin looks straight faced

While some oligarchs have broken ranks with the Kremlin, there is no sign yet other elites are so discontented as to take action against Putin.

2014 Winter Olympics opening ceremony (2014 02 07) 17 2 0

The opening ceremony of the Sochi Winter Olympics was a summary of the Putin era: new media and classicism combined to celebrate nationalism, pride and a symbolic resurrection of Empire, argues Greg Dolgopolov.