When I first met my ex-wife many years ago, I started to learn Russian. But then I stopped, because she wanted to practice English. A few years ago I started to study again a little. I can manage the basics, but not much conversation and only slowly. I plan to start again.
I think that it is necessary to learn the language as part of the culture if only a little, if you love a woman. I want to know all about her, not expect her to conform completely to me. And frankly I like to visit the FSU countries, so knowing some of the language makes it easier.
Frankly speaking, I cannot imagine wanting to marry a Russian/Ukrainian/etc. girl and not learning Russian language. How is it possible?