Sylvain Saurel, a fortress though is not a great way to prosperity in the modern world. It's a throw back to feudal times. And although Putin may be happy with that, others around him may not. Unfortunately when one person is allowed to amass so much personal power there are not smooth ways of ways changing the leadership. I guess that's one reason we have democracy.

There is a danger (for everyone) that Russia becomes another Venezuela. Management of this awful situation will take some deft and sustained management from the West.

Not pretty at all.

Many thanks.