From the article: Looking back, however, it is clear that the outside world has consistently misread him. From the moment he took power, outsiders too often saw what they wanted and played down the darkest sides of Putinism.

People have preyed on hopes and dreams forever, at large and small scale. People see what they wish to see, which has been amply demonstrated in politics and other collective activities. Russia was supposed to be different, somebody European who could be dealt with. Err, no. Unfortunately, the eu is learning others share that approach and might be cuckoos in the nest.

“When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” ~Maya Angelou