Russia in Stagnation: Putin Speech Hints at Big Problems

[unhappycamper]

http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/putin-speech-hints-at-big-problems-and-stagnation-in-russia-a-938761.html



In his annual state of the nation address on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke about the need to rein in corruption and called for technological progress. But he also hinted at the bigger problems that will plague his country in years to come.

Russia in Stagnation: Putin Speech Hints at Big Problems
Commentary By Uwe Klußmann
December 13, 2013 – 02:42 PM

Sometimes a sigh says more than words. On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual state of the nation address in front of members of his government and both chambers of parliament, the State Duma and the Federal Council. And when, during his speech, he lamented that "very corrupt" officials were preventing local authorities from giving vacant community property to large families, he let out a quiet sigh.

Russia's head of state spoke about his country's apparatus of state like a teacher speaks about students whose poor grades threaten their graduation. It was also a throwback to May 2012, when he announced directives aimed at improving the country's administration -- none of which have been implemented.

Putin complained about "administrative barriers" for exporters, mentioned "grueling conversations" with the finance minister and asked civil servants to fulfill their duties "without excuses" and without "watering down" assignments.

Putin hinted at the dramatic effects of corruption by mentioning "rising ethnic tensions." He also warned about "corruptible employees of the law enforcement agencies building a shelter for the ethnic mafia."

[Historic NY]

1. Putin gives "malaise" speech...

you think he might be responsible considering he hijacked the election.