WASHINGTON — The majestic view at sunset from the terrace of President Vladimir V. Putin’s dacha overlooking the Black Sea told you right away why he fought so hard to bring the 2014 Winter Olympics to this resort. Sochi is one of Mr. Putin’s favorite places.
On a visit to his presidential mansion in 2007, shortly after Russia had won the 2014 Games, a group of us listened intently as he looked forward to the Games as vital proof that Russia was back and that he had restored his country to its rightful role in the world. Sochi, he said, would give back to Russia its lost glory. This month, he added that the Games will be a “moral moment” for Russia.