3) Tighten your focus.
You sent me three good stories about Russia. I liked them! What you have to do is focus your content into something more compact. "6 interesting things about Russia" won't fly because it's way too vague. Anyone could note 100 crazy things that have happened in any country in the world.
Of the three you sent me, 2 and 3 work best. I would package them into the pitch "6 Russian conflicts more insane than the Cold War" or something like that. I'm bad at titles, but you see how ridiculous Russian wars is more interesting than, "Oh Russia, you so crazy!!!!!" Don't think I'm picking on you either, your second and third examples are awesome.
I'll PM you, Sub at some point soon about how things are going. If you're interested in Co-writing with me, I'd love to. You'de likely need to help me out with the research, but if we did work together, I'm sure you'de benefit from me taking charge on all the editorial feedback which can be quite overwhelming.
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Love, Bobeta