Catalonia vs Russia

I told a Russian about the Catalonian referendum for independence, and how people are getting beaten when they are trying to vote.
She said, "Those European politicians are so unsophisticated."
She continued, "Here in Russia our politicians just buy votes. It is a lot easier, you know!"
Interesting to see a different perspective on the matter

Anyone in Barcelona that can comment on how status is there right now?
I want to travel through Barcelona in the next week, but I could also take a plane if
it is too bad.