Random Russia sh*t

[Sanzhirovka]

people unfamiliar with the former Soviet Union countries do not understand how extremely repressive they are

And here it should absolutely be pointed out that "the former Soviet Union countries" should not be grouped together as if they are all the same.

Moldova for example is nothing like Belarus is nothing like Estonia, is nothing like Kazakhstan.

That said, yes, Melnikova is a very likeable person. Do I feel sorrry for her? Not in the least.

 

[MaryClare]

I would appreciate it if we could keep post soviet geopolitics out of this thread unless it is relevant to gymnastics in Russia, or to provide context.

If you want to ask anything regarding politics, life, culture etc then I’m happy to chat privately so drop me a message

 

[MaryClare]

Svetlana Khorkina has been speaking at a conference in the city of Samara called Russia: Country of Sports. It is being attended mainly by delegates from emerging nations who wish to develop state sponsored sports programs. The event is being treated with a great deal of prestige and the opening address was given in person by the president.

Here she is with 3x Olympic champion wrestler, Aleksandr Karelin. Karelin today is a very high ranking politician who sits in the upper house as the senator for Novosibirsk.