Speaking Solemnly

In Eastern Europe, “the open discussion of a tragedy represents a revolutionary change,” writes Anne Applebaum, referring to the Russian response to the tragic plane crash that killed many members of the Polish Government over the weekend. “Over the past 20 years, both Russian and Polish officials have begun to acquire the art of speaking with the public, even if they don’t always choose to do so. This is a real change, and we have seen over the past few days what kind of impact it can have. “