The views expressed in this commentary do not necessarily reflect the views of RFE/RL.
The Daily Vertical is a video primer for Russia-watchers that appears Monday through Friday. Viewers can suggest topics via Twitter @PowerVertical or on the Power Vertical Facebook page.
A transcript of today's Daily Vertical can be found here.
NOTE TO READERS/VIEWERS/LISTENERS: I am going back on the road from July 12-21 for speaking engagements in Batumi, Georgia, and Washington, D.C. No Power Vertical products will appear on those days. All Power Vertical products will resume their regular schedule on Monday, July 24.