SmartHERNews SCOOP: What Stops The Russian "War Machine"?
Feb 24, 2025
David Satter, a seasoned journalist and expert on Russian-U.S. affairs, offers invaluable insights into the ongoing war in Ukraine. He discusses the intricacies of Russian culture and the West’s misconceptions, shedding light on the psychological aspects of the conflict. Satter explains the role of disinformation and reflects on how U.S. foreign policy has evolved. He emphasizes the importance of supporting universal values amidst a troubled geopolitical landscape, urging a strategic response to Russia’s aggression.
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Russia's Collective Mentality
- Russia operates with a collective mentality where individual opinions hold little value.
- This focus on the collective can lead to dangerous outcomes, including atrocities and silencing dissent.
Satter's Expulsion from Russia
- David Satter was expelled from Russia in 2013 for his critical reporting, particularly on the government's terrorist acts.
- He suggests his expulsion was a lenient outcome compared to the fates of Russian journalists who investigated similar issues.
Soviet Suppression of Dissent
- During the Soviet era, dissent was often suppressed through extreme measures, like confinement to mental hospitals.
- Satter recounts an incident where a man was taken away for rooting for Germany in a soccer match against the Soviet Union.