(November 15, 2004) Russia’s macroeconomic performance in recent years now allows it to begin repaying its debt early.

(April 16, 2004) Russian President Vladimir Putin, re-elected last month on an anti-graft agenda, has given state officials a hefty pay rise aimed at ensuring them a decent income without having to resort to bribery.

(March 12, 2004) A report by Interfax claims 56 percent of Russians think that bribery and corruption are among the biggest problems in the country. A large majority, 82 percent, think that Russia will not be able to eradicate corruption in the foreseeable future.