Nikolai Rubtsov, poet, born (died 1971)

On this, the occasion of the great writer's 200th birthday, we offer some links to stories we have published about him over the years, as well as some cool videos. Happy reading and viewing!

Russia’s Ministry of Health discussed ways vodka can affect the coronavirus (spoiler alert: not much).

A look at how the Jesuits, Pope Francis, and Georgetown University all share an interesting connection to Russia.

Why is Georgian food so popular in Russia? Turns out there's more to it than deliciousness.

These eight outstanding Soviet comedies show ​​some of what has made Russians laugh over the past century. Most are still watched today. (First in our new series on learning about Russia through its films.)

It is a common trope that Russians never smile. Which of course is interpreted to mean they are unfriendly, gloomy, sullen – positively Dostoyevskian. This, of course, is a complete misreading of body language and cultural norms.