The Communist party mentality is still there by economic, political, and geopolitical actions. It seems Russian influence efforts involving the Democrat Party were partially successful in that in exchange for political contributions, the Democrat Party would let Russia have more geopolitical flexibility. Ultimately, Russia’s influence attempts on the Democrat Party backfired. Russia, influential Communists, labor unions, and the Democrat Party have a long history together, sharing similar political philosophies, starting from the 1920s or so. Then came Hillary Clinton. Putin may have felt his assistance to the Democrats somehow made him leader of modern Communist philosophy and goals. Hillary apparently felt otherwise, leading to a rift between Putin, her, and the Democrat Party. Biden Administration assistance to Ukraine only increases the strain between the Democrats and Russia.
Apparently, Republicans are now trying to somehow exploit a “Relationship gap” between Russia and the Democrats to increase their political weight? Stupid shits.
The preceding is my opinion, based upon history and a reasoning out of seeming key facts.
1984 is your bible.
How many independent news orgs exist in Russia currently?
Let's ask Nesty