Political Questions

1. How high is the level of corruption in Russia? Is it institutionalized?
2. Does Medvedev have any control over the government?
3. What is the foreign policy of Russia regards to China, US, EU?
4. Is Putin really behind everything that goes on in Russian politics at the moment?
5. Is Russia an autocracy?

1. Why does Russian want to control Chechnya?

1. Look at what the relationship is with Ramzan Kadyrov

1. What was behind the conflict in Georgia?

1. Is Russia going to continue this policy towards its regional neighbours?

1. What happened in Ukraine?

1. Why is Russia paranoid about former Soviet bloc countries being absorbed into the E.U?

1. What is Russia’s official and unofficial stance on relationship with EU, US, China, India, Brazil?

1. What is Russia’s strategic intentions?

1. Remain local power and build up a buffer?

1. Does Russia want to see a situation similar to USSR? Regain its lost power?

1. What role do Muslims play in Russian history – Kazan (example of autonomous republic)

1. Terrorism – just a tool for Russia to make more draconian laws? (US parallel)

1. Role of terrorism on development in Russia

1. Role of Stalin and personality cult today?

1. Putin’s image – personality cult?

1. Opposition to Putin/Medvedev – does it exist?

1. What has happened to opposition in the past?

1. Abramovich – What is his relationship with politicians and Putin in particular?

1. What is the role of the FSB, does the governmet have control over them?

1. How many ex-KGB employees are currently serving in a public role?

1. How likely is a change in constitution?

1. Will Putin be re-elected as President?

1. How much influence does Russia have over its former satellites? What is the source of that influence?