The Intelligence from The Economist Vlad tidings: demonstrations across Russia
Jan 25, 2021
Arkady Ostrovsky, the Russia editor for The Economist, provides crucial insights into the protests ignited by Alexei Navalny's arrest, revealing a public yearning for reform amid rising discontent with Putin. Meanwhile, Daniel Franklin, the diplomatic editor, analyzes Britain's evolving foreign policy after Brexit, highlighting the nation's struggle for a new global role. The hosts dive into the complex reactions to these significant events, underscoring potential long-term shifts in both Russian politics and Britain's international relations.
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Navalny Protests
- Tens of thousands of Russians protested Alexei Navalny's arrest across over 100 cities.
- Chants included "Putin is a thief" and "Freedom to Navalny."
Moscow Protest Atmosphere
- Arkady Ostrovsky noted a cautious atmosphere in Moscow, with protesters demonstrating despite intimidation.
- Police showed relative restraint compared to Belarus, avoiding tear gas and rubber bullets.
Protest Motivations and Kremlin Response
- Diverse protesters were motivated by Navalny's unjust arrest, the "Putin palace" film, and general fatigue with the regime.
- The Kremlin dismissed the protests' size and cited intimidation as the reason for lower turnout.