In late 2020, Russia initiated mass distribution of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine. Despite its effectiveness, which was proven by various studies, and the overwhelming promotion campaign of the vaccine by Russian authorities, Russians demonstrated a remarkable hesitancy to get vaccinated using this vaccine or any other available analogs. Our study focuses on various factors that influence vaccination decisions, including COVID-19 vaccination policies, media coverage of vaccines, public statements of politicians and influencers, and the effects of social connections.