Russia president Dmitri Medvedev told that the government must do something about the country’s status as a world leader in alcohol consumption

The Kremlin has already tried to eliminate one vice this year – casino gambling, which was banned in July. But drinking — vodka in particular — is another thing. It is a mainstay of Russian life, both a beloved social lubricant and a ready means for escaping everyday hardship.
Mr. Medvedev is seeking steeper penalties on the sale of alcohol to minors, as well as a crackdown on beer, which has grown more popular among young people. Beer sales at kiosks would be banned, as would large beer containers. The government may seek more control over the market for vodka, still the most common alcoholic beverage. (more…)