As I indicated before, Catfish, its not about independent, challenging candidates, but followers chosen by Putin. The Russian way does not obey Western standards, like it or or hate it - but it will not happen the Western way.
What we as Wetserners must prioritize is stability and control of the military and the nuclear sector, both brain power and existing weapons. And we are well advised in the West to support that outcome in Russia that maximises the chance that these factors are safe. Also we have a legitimate and vital interest in fighting back the massive Russian destabilizing interference in our political and social-communal proceedings. If we cannot even protect our own societies from Moscow'S destructive influx, how less are our options to influence their own society and state'S stability...?!
That all is not ideal, that is not idealistic, but that is how things are, and we do not have the power to enforce things being different. We are on the defense already. And America's Moscow-assisted self-destruction is not helpful either.
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If you feel nuts, consult an expert.
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