Monday, October 06, 2008

A different take on Russia

Washington Post: "...But behind the shiny surface, Russian society may actually be weaker than it was even during Soviet times. The Kremlin's recent military adventures and tough talk are the bluster of the frail, not the swagger of the strong.

While Russia has capitalized impressively on its oil industry, the volatility of the world oil market means that Putin cannot count on a long-term pipeline of cash flowing from high oil prices.
...
According to U.N. figures, the average life expectancy for a Russian man is 59 years -- putting the country at about 166th place in the world longevity sweepstakes, one notch above Gambia."

Interesting look at the other side of Russia. Not the aggressive kremlin policy, but the underpinnings of a civilization.

3 comments:

Matthew Celestine said...

A lot of Russians do feel that life in Russia has improved enormously under Putin.

It is noticeable that the Russian birthrate is increasing after a very steap decline.

God Bless

Matt

Matthew Celestine said...

Call me a Useful Idiot for the Kremlin.

RobertDWood said...

Matt, thanks. Loi, I don't consider you an idiot. :D