[Cherie]

Originally Posted by Quantum Boy

Reading between the lines, one might argue that he's sympathetic to the commonly-held Mother Russia argument that all ex-Soviet territories are still "rightfully" part of the Russian collective... thus, it's (morally) a reclamation of rightful territory and not an invasion. But that would be an extremely Russia-aligned viewpoint, and has not only never been the POV of the United States, but the United States were a massive and active part of creating the post-Soviet world that had the exact opposite view on this.

It really is all bizarre because - not only this - but Red State Americans (Republican core) would never, ever have taken this stance. A few short years ago Russia / Communism were words that evoked utter horror in the Republican voter base. Now they worship an extremely Mother-Russia-Sympathising leader. If you'd told me this was even possible a couple of years ago I would have laughed.

To be fair it's all (dismal, but) interesting in the social psychology realm. Obviously the "cult of personality" is a known thing but I don't think there's a modern example of one this strong. I'd maybe even go as far as to say, there has never been one with this much influence. Most likely due to he internet/"instant news" being relatively new. Makes me wonder what various historical demagogues would have been able to achieve if they'd had Social Media.

I saw a poll earlier that said 70 per cent of Republican are actually appalled at what went on last Friday...will try to find it