Or, assuming you're using some version of Windows, you can make a shortcut on your desktop for the game. Right click on the shortcut, go to Properties.

It should have a line that shows the command line; in XP, it's labeled Target. It should say something to the effect of D:\MTW\Medieval_TW.exe -strictserver (it might not say '-strictserver' depending on your version of the game).

Simply add -ian to the end (without the quotes of course), OK, and then you'll be all set. Just use that shortcut to start the game and it'll work.

Russians should be Shift+8

People and game guides keep saying that you need to hit Ctrl to get it to work, but you don't. I never hit Ctrl and it works just fine.

Lastly, whatever you do, DO NOT hit A while you're at the campaign map... it'll go into autorun mode, which is incredibly irritating.

Cheers
DB