Mark Galeotti, a leading expert on modern Russia and author of influential works like Putin’s Wars, dives into the fallout from Yevgeny Prigozhin's death. He explores how Putin’s circle is shrinking, revealing cracks in loyalties among security forces and Wagner fighters. The discussion highlights public sentiment's growing disconnect from government narratives and the implications for upcoming elections. Galeotti also addresses the geopolitical tensions stemming from Ukraine's actions and their potential repercussions for Russia's military strategy.
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insights INSIGHT
Putin's Weakening Grip
Putin's failure to manage rivalries within his regime led to Prigozhin's mutiny.
This exposed vulnerabilities in Putin's leadership and control over the security forces.
insights INSIGHT
Wagner and Ultranationalist Discontent
While individual Wagner fighters might harbor resentment, a large-scale organized revolt is unlikely.
Discontent among ultranationalists is growing due to the war's mismanagement.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Public Discontent in Russia
Prigozhin's mutiny exposed simmering public discontent in Russia, not necessarily support for Prigozhin himself.
Many Russians appreciated Prigozhin's willingness to challenge the official narrative and expose the war's mismanagement.
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This book provides a detailed overview of the conflicts Russia has been involved in since Vladimir Putin became president. It covers the First and Second Chechen Wars, the military incursion into Georgia, the annexation of Crimea, and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Mark Galeotti, a leading expert on modern Russia, offers insights into the inner workings of the Kremlin and the evolution of the Russian military. The book also discusses the broader strategic context and the impact of these conflicts on Russia's military reforms and international standing. Updated to include the aborted coup of June 2023 and the Russian military's struggles in Ukraine, it is a thought-provoking analysis of how Putin's wars have reshaped Russia in the 21st century.
Going Infinite
The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon
Michael Lewis
In 'Going Infinite', Michael Lewis delves into the life of Sam Bankman-Fried, the enigmatic founder of the failed cryptocurrency exchange FTX. The book provides a psychological portrait and a financial roller-coaster ride, tracing Bankman-Fried's trajectory from becoming the world's youngest billionaire to his eventual downfall. It covers topics such as high-frequency trading, cryptocurrencies, effective altruism, and the justice system. Despite criticism for its sympathetic portrayal of Bankman-Fried, the book offers a fascinating insight into the complex world of cryptocurrencies and the character of its central figure.
The Weaponization of Everything
Mark Galeotti
Mark Galeotti is one of the world’s leading experts on modern Russia and is the author of books such as Putin’s Wars: From Chechnya to Ukraine and The Weaponisation of Everything: A Field Guide to the New Way of War. In conversation with Intelligence Squared's Conor Boyle, he explains how the recent death of the Wagner mercenary Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin means that Russian President Vladimir Putin is losing powerful allies and those willing to carry out Russia's military agenda. How long can Putin cling onto power?
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