The piece begins by highlighting the complexities of Mikhail Gorbachev's legacy, particularly how he is perceived in his home country compared to the Western viewpoint that celebrates his role in liberating Eastern Europe and reuniting Germany. It sets the stage by contrasting Gorbachev with his predecessors, particularly noting his initial warm reception which quickly turned sour following his dramatic anti-alcohol campaign. This campaign, while historically significant, suggests that even well-intentioned policies can have unintended consequences, especially in a society grappling with deep-rooted issues like alcoholism.

The discussion then shifts to the modern political landscape in Russia, particularly focusing on Alexei Navalny, a prominent opposition leader. The author establishes a chilling parallel between Gorbachev's struggles and today's challenges faced by Navalny, who embodies the fight against a system that suppresses dissent and freedom of expression. Just as Gorbachev faced backlash for his reforms, the current regime is depicted as similarly resistant to change, maintaining an oppressive hold on power.

The article concludes by reflecting on the implications of this historical context for contemporary Russia, suggesting that the country's political culture remains resistant to genuine reform. It implies that without significant change, figures like Navalny may face similarly grim outcomes as those who challenged the status quo during Gorbachev’s era. This reflection posits a dire warning about the dangers of inaction in the face of deep-rooted societal issues and the potential cost of resistance against oppressive regimes.