The politics are stable. The further east in Europe, the greater the risk. Thus some countries such as Romania, Belarus, or Bulgaria are a step behind the aforementioned countries, with legal development the lowest in the Ukraine and Russia. In such countries, bribing practices are standard for even the most basic services such as heating and cooling, electricity, police and fire protection, and basic communication services. Criminality is rampant.
Abduction is a legitimate risk.
In Eastern Europe, more than anywhere else, good partners and people on the ground are required.