The article discusses alcoholism in Russia, describing it as a national tradition that has persisted for centuries. With alarming statistics from the World Health Organization showing that one in five Russian men will die from alcohol-related causes, it highlights the serious prevalence of alcoholism in the country, with around 20 million people affected. Historical figures like Ivan the Terrible and Peter the Great exploited drinking as a means of revenue and control over the populace, establishing a culture where heavy drinking is normalized and state-sanctioned. Despite numerous attempts to curb alcohol consumption throughout history, these efforts often failed due to the government's reliance on alcohol sales for revenue and the public's dependency on it.

The article reflects on how alcohol consumption is deeply embedded in Russian culture, being depicted in literature, film, and music as a national trait rather than a problem. It points out that organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous are not prevalent in Russia, as many individuals believe they lack the ability to change their circumstances, which is symptomatic of an authoritarian state that benefits from controlling an addicted populace. The severe consequences of alcoholism are emphasized, including diminished life expectancy and various social issues, and it is suggested that continued alcohol consumption could significantly reduce Russia's population by 2050. In the current context of the war against Ukraine, the article suggests that alcohol is a contributing factor to the country's declining health and stability, while also painting a grim picture of an ingrained tradition that people largely refuse to see as a serious problem.