Putin’s popularity gradually declined and Russia’s modernization seemed inevitable. Though the short war with Georgia in 2008 did give his approval ratings a temporary boost.

In 2012, Putin faced unprecedented protests by the urban classes, and began a very sharp U-turn towards ultra-conservative policies. And one of the main components of his propaganda was the glorification of Russia’s so-called victorious Soviet history.

Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 was portrayed as an act of “restoring the empire.” Imperial feelings were slumbering in the hearts of most Russians, and Putin played on this, reviving their pride in being part of a great power. As the Crimean effect wore off, Putin stepped on the pedal for Soviet nostalgia, presenting the Stalin era — particularly the Great Patriotic War — as one of victory and order.

Fast forward to 2021, and almost half (49%) of Russian respondents would prefer the Soviet political system, according to a study published in September by the independent Levada Center. The survey, which included 1,603 adult respondents across 50 regions of Russia, said it was a record figure of Soviet support for this century.