Stores and shops did not open until mid and late afternoon on New Years Day. Stores in Russia began pricing merchandise and services with both currencies. Banks and exchange booths still handed out old currency. I had trouble even finding an open bank. This time of year in Russia is the height of the holiday season.
Russian banks keep even more bizairre hours than American banks.
The Associated Press Mention Boris Yeltsin to an average Russian and they will laugh at you. Yeltsin was popular whem he first assumed the presidency in 1991 and 1992. Having been subjected to six years of his government, most Russians are now apathetic. A friend expressed her frustration at the government. I did not see Yeltsin during my time in Moscow.