though – adj. short for although

strained – adj. involving or related to stretching or pulling something

region – n. an area

pessimism – n. a belief that bad things will happen in the future

Kremlin – n. the name for the headquarters of the Russian government

utility – adj. of or involving a public service, such as lighting, power or water

infrastructure – n. the system of public works (workers, buildings or equipment) for a country