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 POWER VERTICALISTAS: I will be speaking at the Winter Security Workshop in Podgorica, Montenegro from Monday, December 11, until Wednesday, December 13. No Power Vertical products will appear on those days. The regular schedule resumes on Thursday, December 14.