The essence of the methods (used by the Kremlin) is to remove from power those leaders that are too independent from its point of view.

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The central power may be using this 'brown' threat as a means to transfer power in 2007-8 in much the same way they used it in 1996. At that time, they made the case that the Communists were threatening a comeback, making former President Yeltsin's team look so much better in comparison.

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There are groups in the Kremlin who believe that (the old) methods are not necessary any more.

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Officials could see how the tough rhetoric resonated in society during the gas war with Ukraine last week.

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