Russia and Russians suffer from the legacy of the strongman/strongwoman.
They do not trust or like fair rulers --they'd see them as unsure, flailing and a pushover. Since the Kievan Rus they have only known strong rulers from the Czars to mr Steel himself --the only break being Gorbachov and Yeltsin.
This is one of the reasons Putin --even if he wanted, cannot look like he's giving in. He'd be seen a sellout to the country ala Gorbachov/Yeltsin.
They are bound to strongmen/women for the foreseeable future. It's not an easy habit to get out from under especially given their historical context.
Oh, what is it they call that, reading history? But if you don't have the time, you can do some searching for yourself. Or, you know, talk to some Russian exiles.
They do not trust or like fair rulers --they'd see them as unsure, flailing and a pushover. Since the Kievan Rus they have only known strong rulers from the Czars to mr Steel himself --the only break being Gorbachov and Yeltsin.
This is one of the reasons Putin --even if he wanted, cannot look like he's giving in. He'd be seen a sellout to the country ala Gorbachov/Yeltsin.
They are bound to strongmen/women for the foreseeable future. It's not an easy habit to get out from under especially given their historical context.