The majority probably can't hold a conversation in English.
That's why, not because they are rude. I found that people were incredibly helpful despite the fact that my standard of Russian is apalling. I just had to get started explaining what I wanted in Russian, and regular people went out of their way to help me (with the exception of a few officials.)

It is not a wise move to travel off the beaten track in a country where people generally do not speak a language that you can speak, or if you are not with somebody who speaks the language. I think the ex USSR falls into that category. I travelled to Russian speaking countries with quite bad skills ON PURPOSE, so that I'd be forced to speak Russian --- I am too lazy and embarrassed to do it unless I am am forced, same with all langauges, which is why I am rubbish at languages....

If you cannot make yourself understood, anywhere in the world, and you need to resort to English, then the best approach is, if you must ask a stranger, try for people who look like they are university students or young business professionals. In worst case scenario, go for a "high school" age person. Works in most countries.