Eurasian Economic Union established

[Nemo1024]

Are there any protests about things (real, important things) that the Russian people disagree with and want their government to do differently?

Nah, only the usual European things... gay rights and such. [/trolling]  

It seems ironic that the communists were so sensitive, like royalty. This sensitivity is part of what led to their downfall. There was also the financial incompetence, which could have led to some kind of inferiority complex... But, as you can see, trying to silence criticism and opposition was a fatal mistake.

Actually, you are not too far from truth there. They were communists in name only. They de facto continued the system of monarchy, only with a much stronger oppression apparatus.

Monarchy or dictatorship can be good, if a monarch does not only think of his pocket. Alas, such monarchs are far between.

[blablahblah]

It seems ironic that the communists were so sensitive, like royalty. This sensitivity is part of what led to their downfall. There was also the financial incompetence, which could have led to some kind of inferiority complex... But, as you can see, trying to silence criticism and opposition was a fatal mistake.

Actually, you are not too far from truth there. They were communists in name only. They de facto continued the system of monarchy, only with a much stronger oppression apparatus.

I hadn't considered that it wasn't accidental. Thanks for that thought!

And I guess your earlier point has some merit, since the EU is not a country and the usual nationalism and cultural coherence doesn't apply. Apart from some polite flag-waving on government buildings, there seems to be very little 'love' for the EU.

Please take my point about the negative feedback as a helpful hint. ;-)

[bryant.coleman]

Perhaps you and your Russian compatriots should show a bit more concern about Putin's high popularity? Shouldn't there be at least a couple of strong competitors with around 20% to 30% support? Are there any real opposition parties? Are there any protests about things (real, important things) that the Russian people disagree with and want their government to do differently?

Check the election results and you'll get your answer.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_legislative_election,_2011

[bryant.coleman]

Kyrgyzstan planning to join the Eurasian Union.

Kyrgyzstan launches a "road map" for joining the CU

http://ria.ru/economy/20140603/1010504108.html