What is behind the negative press on Russia?
Oil and Gas. The oil and gas disputes have been settled and relationships with regional energy trading partners have dramatically improved. Russia continually has reaffirmed its commitment to energy security and no disruptions are anticipated. Oligarchs. It is true that many could have been singled out for prosecution stemming from unfair practices during the privatization of many of Russia’s assets; however several were arrogant and told Putin they would not pay any taxes because the tax law did not exist when they formed their companies, period. Try that in the US! In Russia there is no sympathy for tax evading oligarchs and the hard stance against them has lead to a stabler economy, balanced budget and improved conditions for Russian citizens. However, in the west, these same few oligarchs have used their wealth to gain access to the press centered in England and therefore avoid prosecution by wrongly depicting Russia’s anti-corruption measures. Some further sources of the criticism
