We have learned the hard way that many nations will be ruled by dictators, no matter what we do. China is the greatest failure we have had in the theory that economic gains will lead to friendly regimes.

Putin is not a unique personality in Russia. There are many who think like him, even if no siloviki.

Russia's society has never made the transition from authoritarianism to democracy, and remains essentially a feudal country, with huge numbers of "peasants" (who are thought of that way by the leadership).