Consider This from NPR Vladimir Putin's Horrible, Terrible, but in the End Pretty Good Year
Dec 18, 2023
Charles Maynes, NPR's Russia correspondent, delves into Vladimir Putin's tumultuous year in 2023. He discusses the shocking rebellion led by Yevgeny Prigozhin and its aftermath, including the mysterious death of Prigozhin. Maynes reveals how Putin is maneuvering for a fifth presidential campaign despite political repression and growing dissent. He highlights the mounting unrest among families of soldiers, challenging propaganda narratives. As the U.S. navigates its own political landscape, the stakes for Ukraine and Putin's future are higher than ever.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Prigozhin's Rebellion
- Yevgeny Prigozhin, initially a close Putin ally, led a rebellion against him.
- Prigozhin's rebellion ended abruptly, and he died in a plane crash two months later.
Putin's Resurgence
- Despite a challenging year with Prigozhin's rebellion and war setbacks, Putin's position seems strengthened.
- US aid to Ukraine is faltering, and Putin is running for reelection.
Putin's Initial Challenges
- At the start of 2023, Putin's war in Ukraine faced setbacks, and his popularity dipped.
- Infighting among Russian military leadership and a messy mobilization drive contributed to these challenges.