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#289 – Stephen Kotkin: Putin, Zelenskyy, and War in Ukraine

Lex Fridman Podcast

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Navigating Nationalism and Authoritarianism

This chapter explores the intricate motivations behind nationalistic actions within the context of Russian geopolitical ambitions, revealing how leaders justify sacrifices for power. It discusses the psychological and cultural elements that compel individuals in authoritarian regimes to uphold a narrative of greatness, despite moral costs. The conversation highlights the contradictions of reliance on Western systems while promoting anti-Western sentiment and how Ukraine's resistance reshapes global power dynamics.

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