Russia
I'd be very cautious when flying in Russia. They have a different set of rules and regs there and if these are more stringent than those of JAA, you must follow them. A classic catch is Airport operating minima. If you are on an approach past the marker and you are told that the airport is below minima you are not allowed to continue even if your minima was lower than the Russian one. Many a crew been in trouble for this.
As for the political motivation for ramp checks in Russia, no doubt that this happens. "Putler's" Russia has taken huge steps towards the good old USSR and trust me Soviet Union is live and kicking, just caller Russia these days.