I'm not sure how well you've got to know the Russians on your 3 visits, but not everyone is the same. I live with a Russian and don't think it applies to her.
I'm slightly surprised you're surprised. It's what all people like that do when caught, they just deny. Like Sepp Tw@, and Lance Armstrong. Just deny it.
That's unfair. Their leaders aren't even democratically elected, so it's a bit harsh to judge the people on the actions of the dictators.