Originally Posted by deadeye48
This really wouldn’t be a surprise to us who grew up in the time when we saw several leaders of Russia come and go in just a few short years
I think Putin has lasted longer than all of them

Outside of Western Civilization, Killing your political rivals is the NORM and has been for a very long time. Not the outlier. It's only in the West that it's become taboo.

Anyone ever looked into the number of assassinations Japan underwent before the Army and Navy finally locked up control before WW2? Answer, a whole bunch. Taking the job of Secretary of State or Ambassador was a death sentance.


Character is not developed in moments of temptation and trial. That is when it is intended to be used.