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Russia paid dearly to stage a world-class Olympics — $50 billion — and remake its image as a modern, efficient and friendly nation. But its Olympic success is quickly being forgotten and tarnished by Russia’s moves in Ukraine.Russia paid dearly to stage a world-class Olympics — $50 billion — and remake its image as a modern, efficient and friendly nation. But its Olympic success is quickly being forgotten and tarnished by Russia’s moves in Ukraine.
Abkhazia remains in limbo. It became a de facto independent state from Georgia, which claims the territory, back in the 1990s. But just a handful of states — Russia, its largest benefactor, and about four others — recognize it as independent. And even though the most recent Olympics were in Russia, it wasn’t invited to the party.
Russia is projecting a new image at these Olympics: a helpful, welcoming Russia. Suddenly police are friendlier, politicians meet with activists, people are recycling. It’s a version of Russia a lot of people would like to have, but it may not last beyond the games.
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