they need it to stay warm!

Every Russian leader, it seems, finds a new way to try to confront the country's addiction to alcohol. Now, it's current President Dmitry Medvedev's turn.

His approach: declaring war on cheap vodka. As of the first of the year, vendors had to begin charging at least 89 rubles — or about $3 — for a half-liter of Russia's favorite drink. Last year, a thirsty Russian could have plunked down just $1.70 for one.

The Russian vodka tradition goes back centuries. The word "vodka" may even come from the Russian word for its main ingredient, water, says Nikolai Kamaletdinov, a guide at the museum attached to the Cristall vodka distillery in Moscow.

The problem is that sometimes Russians drink the liquor like it's water. They are convinced it helps them survive Russia's bitter cold. It is their national drink, in the way other countries have embraced wine or beer. But vodka is a much stronger drink — a problem for Russian leaders who have been trying for years to reduce consumption. (via)