Edit: wrong week of watching Russian TV, correct one here:http://www.businessinsider.com/russias-showdown-with-west-wi...
I like the guardian somewhat, but you gotta know who the guardian are.
Not disputing your take --but you and I must know a diff set of people. [Should Russia return Crimea, should they give Japan the Ryukus --some small insignificant islets]
Also, amongst Russians, there are different waves of emigres. Some waves forsook everything upon leaving, those emigres by their nature, have a different view than other waves.
It's pointless to argue about free election outcome without free access to media. In any western country, an investigation alleging president's friends funneling billions of tax money offshore would be in every news issue. Brazil got rid of a president over much much less. How can you call it an election if you can't get any airtime, are convicted in a kangaroo court and your brother is in prison?