Putin orders vodka price cap as Russia’s economic crisis escalates

[SidDithers]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/international-business/putin-orders-vodka-price-cap-as-russias-economic-crisis-escalates/article22201640/

Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his government on Wednesday to rein in rising vodka prices, as he battles to preserve his popularity amid an aggravating economic crisis.

Putin told a meeting with government officials and regional governors that expensive vodka prices encourage the production of bootleg spirits, which carry greater risks to people’s health than legally produced alcohol.

Russia is facing its worst economic crisis since 1998, when the country devalued the ruble and defaulted on its debt. Putin’s popularity is partly based on his reputation for providing prosperity and stability.

“The overshoot of vodka prices leads only to increasing consumption of bootleg (spirits),” said Putin, who is known for promoting a healthy lifestyle. “I think the relevant structures (government bodies) should think of that,” he added.

Vladdy's got his priorities.

Sid

[Duckhunter935]

1. that is indeed true

[zappaman]

2. Yeah right.

I'll wait to see what RT says about this as I and 49, 999, 999 other Americans get all our news from it!

[geek tragedy]

3. Shit just got real. nt

[Cha]

10. You know it.

[Cooley Hurd]

4. They did the same thing for heroin in '29...

...that's why everyone jumped. (I'm joking here, Sid. Never forget, I'm a joker 1st and foremost. )

[daredtowork]

5. And there we have the essential difference between Russia and the US

In the US we go nuts and start pointing fingers o' blame if poor people drink alcohol to escape their problems and keep warm.

In Russia alcohol is considered a necessity and a staple for the poor, and the President will be overthrown if he doesn't guarantee its availability.

[Brother Buzz]

8. Have you ever seen a Commie drink a glass of water?

[Scootaloo]

6. But no price controls on spam? n/t

[zappaman]

9. By request.

[Rex]

7. Got to keep those vodka market prices stable.

While making a mint off the black market vodka. Putin gets to have it both ways.

[Cha]

11. Lotta stress in Russia? 1/4 Russian men die before they reach mid-fifties and their love of vodka

"According to a study by leading international universities last year, a quarter of all Russian men die before they reach their mid-fifties, and their love of alcohol – particularly vodka – is partly to blame."

Is it just me.. or that a high percentage!?

Mahalo Sid