Although west leaning socially, Russians are a different breed. Amongst modern leaders only Nemtsov dreamed of a free, independent Russian. If I recall some wording of exiled Russian philosopher Vlad Vexler,the society, leaders and their dreams speak of death, to kill their enemies, to die in glory, to destroy. Currently the society does not dream of progress, prosperity or fairness. Their desire is for suffering, poverty and ignorance. With these conditions, Putin and the lot can shape their peoples minds toward anything they want. Russians are fully de-politicized is a doing of Putin over the past 20 years. Over 95% of Russian's love to think that politics is for a selected few. Russian people are so desperate and miserable, they will do anything to satisfy the masters they depend on. They are provided plenty of Vodka to forget and get a sleep. Sad, but true.
