I just read an on-line article in Russian Life about the largely gay boycott of Stolichnaya Vodka in America. Apparently the vodka is made in Latvia and majority owned by a company in Yugoslavia. The article correctly points out that any harm done to a Russian company will largely reflect on the ordinary Russian citizen and not the government.

It's an interesting article with humor and style. The article is written by Paul E. Richardson. Doesn't sound Russian.


I recommend reading it. Propaganda abounds in all countries,
but this seems well thought out, and also suggests a variety of Russian companies and/or activities, including the Olympics, that could be better boycotted rather than Stolichnaya Vodka. But probably without effect.

Incidentally, I don't agree with Russia's treatment of their gay community or of charging foreign gay activists such as the Dutch filmmakers who were arrested because they interviewed a minor.

US President Obama is vociferous about Africa's gay human rights policies.

Has the Snowden case influenced his handling of Russian policy with velvet gloves?

Russia just passed a law making "gay propaganda" illegal, esp propaganda that might reach minors. Four Dutch filmmakers have recently been charged under this new law because they interviewed a 17-year-old gay man, a minor under Russian law.

Then there's Edward Snowden, accused of leaking US secrets, and seeking asylum in Russia because he may face torture and the death penalty in the USA.

Articles surmise that Obama may be silent on human rights issues in Russia because Snowden is presently in Russia, seeking asylum, and since this is a sensitive area, Obama doesn't want to further inflame Russian sentiments.

What do you think, readers?

Would US reaction to an anti-LFBT law signed by Russian leader Putin be influenced by an equally sensitive situation in the US?

What do you think of Big Brother in 2013?