In need of changes, Russia and Putin stuck in echo chamber

With parliamentary elections looming in less than a month, Putin is backed by a bunch of yes men when he needs experts in politics, writes William E Pomeranz

RUSSIA’S search for greater international influence and respect continued its downwards spiral this summer. Its Olympic experience was spoiled by charges of doping. Accusations of hacking dragged it into the US presidential campaign, and military tensions over Ukraine and Syria show no sign of abetting.

All this clamour and controversy is overshadowing Russia’s impending September 18 parliamentary elections. This might be exactly what President Vladimir Putin wants, however.