The political aspect is important.
Not least because the Kremlin does not have many other successes to show to the outside world or to its own people.
Of course, being first and best in the world when it comes to something of global importance strengthens self-esteem.
That the vaccine has not really been fully tested and those who are now being vaccinated are a bit of guinea pigs is something the major TV channels are talking about quietly.
"Tradition of high competence"
At the same time, it is the case that there is a long tradition of high competence when it comes to research and medicine in Russia.
And when those in power in the Kremlin signal that it is a top priority to develop a vaccine, well then there is the capacity required.
And in Europe, the United States and China, vaccines have been developed about as fast.
Few countries in the world have found more infected with the coronavirus.
According to unreliable official statistics, more than 40,000 Russians have died of covid-19.
But President Putin clearly believes that the Russian economy cannot withstand a major downturn.
The population seems to agree.
Then you put your hope in the vaccine.
"Initially quite modest"
The so-called mass vaccination that has now begun is initially quite modest.
Perhaps around five thousand Muscovites were vaccinated today.
Of a population of around 15 million.
That brings me back to politics and international prestige: Pfizer / Moderna announced that their vaccine provided 90% immunity.
The next day, Russia announced that the Russian vaccine provided 92 percent protection.
A few days ago, the UK announced that vaccination will start next week.
So today the vaccination started in Russia.
But the concrete thing here is still that there is a vaccine (slightly uncertain) that is now starting to be given to people in risk groups.
First, people who at work are forced to have contact with many people;
doctors, healthcare professionals and teachers.
It is seen as good news and a Russian success.