In Moscow's Shadows In Moscow's Shadows 194: Q&A, Part 1
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Apr 6, 2025 Delve into the intricate world of Russian domestic politics and foreign policy. The discussion highlights climate denial and innovative protests against the war in Ukraine. Insightful analysis on Russia's National Guard reveals its limited role in the conflict and future uncertainties. Explore shifting alliances with Iran and North Korea amidst geopolitical bargaining. Finally, examine the potential for leadership succession and military strategies in a post-war landscape, all while navigating the complexities of regional relations.
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Court Influence and Corruption
- Members of Russia's ruling court infiltrate bureaucratic institutions through kinship and, more commonly, by acquiring proxies.
- This undermines state efficiency, creating monopolies, diverting funds, and protecting corruption, ironically benefiting the West and Ukraine.
Nabiullina's Potential Replacement
- Replacing Elvira Nabiullina, Russia's central bank governor, would be a significant blow to business confidence and could lead to increased corruption.
- Putin may dismiss her due to inflation, but any replacement would likely lack her political power or competence.
Wildberries Shootout Resolution
- The Wildberries shootout, combining a divorce dispute and business rivalry, saw Ramzan Kadyrov backing the former husband against Putin's support for the founder.
- Kadyrov lost, but hasn't suffered significantly, highlighting the risks of challenging established interests within Russia's power structure.