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 VIEWERS: As I will be going on vacation, The Daily Vertical and all Power Vertical products will not appear from August 7-11. The regular schedule will resume on Monday August 14.