Why all this anti-Putin crap on Spinster? I have no doubt that the mercenaries (the U.S. calls its mercenaries "contractors") got a better offer from the U.S. which has no money but amazingly has unlimited money when it comes to destabilizing other governments. Putin is very popular because Russians feel he's given Russia back a notion of its own sovereignty and significance. I DO NOT BELIEVE ANY CRAP published by propaganda purveyors about anything and always go looking at various genuine news sites -- you know, the journalists who have to beg for money -- for real information. Be skeptical, folks, particularly if you don't buy into the media trash regarding trans.