Theoretically, even the most egoistic government who's only purpose is to get more for themselves must realize that in order to preserve it's welfare it must make sure the citizens are doing fine. Russians are not desperate yet, so maybe the government has found the right balance. Obviously, many are involved in the scheme and many people have things to lose if the government initiates a real war on corruption. So the government must be afraid too and that fear is greater. However, I don't think you can keep that balance forever. Like the article suggests, the brightest flee the country and someone has to make the economy going.
I realize I probably don't know many things guys up there are aware of, but it seems pretty obvious from down here that the only thing that should be done to help the country bloom is to eliminate corruption. For real. Then all those silicon valleys and scientists start reappearing on their own, healthcare starts recovering, investors begin coming back. Focus.