The Growing Threat in
Vladimir Putin's Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin actions indicate a growing disregard for the most basic tenets of a true democracy - rule of law, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and a right to privacy. Putin continues on his authoritarian path, openly rejecting the warnings received from his allies in the West, including the United States, and using old KGB tactics to keep a tight rein on Russia's young democracy. Most recently, these strong-arm tactics have been used to silence the voice of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, former CEO of Yukos, and proponent of democracy and corporate transparency.

Recently, President Putin opined that "...the breakup of the Soviet Union is a national tragedy on an enormous scale.” Read more news.

Is this trend dangerous for the democratized world? Read what others are saying.

Warning Signs within Russia:

• Disregard for the rule of law -- political extortion and the two faces of Vladimir Putin
• Attacks on freedom of speech -- including harassment and exile for members of the media
• Disregard for freedom of religion -- increasing evidence of the persecution of Catholics in Russia
• Contempt for the right to privacy -- as guaranteed in the Russian Constitution
• Coercion and imprisonment -- of business leaders who may pose political challenges to the ruling political party
• The return of the KGB -- Putin's reamalgamation of the security ministries are causing renewed concern over a return to a Soviet-style KGB structure and practices
  • The enormous access and influence of the FSB in Vladimir Putin's inner circle
  • View a complete roster of former KGB personnel in power in Putin's government
• Anti - U.S. foreign policy -- vocal opposition to U.S. policies in Iraq, Iran and North Korea
• Institutional paranoia over the Peace Corps -- explusion of Peace Corps volunteers