Omnibus Introducing The History Bureau: Putin and the Apartment Bombs
Jan 22, 2026
Helena Merriman, a BBC presenter and investigative journalist, dives into the 1999 Russian apartment bombings that marked a turning point for Vladimir Putin. The discussion reveals the chaos the bombings caused and raises the chilling question: who was responsible? Merriman shares insights from journalists who covered the story and explores withheld evidence and potential cover-ups. The conversation also delves into the bombings' implications for Putin's rise to power and the dangers faced by those delving too deeply into this unresolved mystery.
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Bombings Shaped Russia's Political Turn
- The 1999 apartment bombings across Russia killed hundreds and reshaped national politics.
- The attacks helped set the stage for Vladimir Putin's rapid rise to power.
Nationwide Panic And Nighttime Carnage
- The attacks plunged Russia into panic as families fled and residents patrolled blocks.
- Entire neighborhoods were paralyzed by fear while hundreds died in their sleep.
Unresolved Mystery And Conflicting Reporting
- Journalists still deeply disagree about who carried out the bombings more than 25 years later.
- Much evidence remains classified, buried, or covered up, leaving the story unresolved.