Mark Galeotti: West has lost the right to lecture Putin
Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks as he chairs a session of the State Council's Presidium at the Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow on Oct. 19.
While at home, President Vladimir Putin is the world-bestriding colossus, wise tsar and benevolent father of the nation, abroad he is once again facing a familiar vilification, as warmonger, kleptocrat and tyrant. Yes, corruption is deeply embedded in Russia's economic and political systems, and the Kremlin regards military force as an instrument of national interest.
