In Moscow's Shadows

In Moscow's Shadows 120: Putin is Dead! (well, probably not)

Oct 29, 2023

Rumors of Putin's death circulate, media outlets react. Speculation on implications of Putin's potential death and possible successor. Career path of the director of the federal tax service. Role of PM Michigan and his actions since replacing Mediviriev. Speculating on the next leader and Michigan's potential.

43:39

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Quick takeaways

The fascination with Putin's health stems from the secretive nature of his regime and the potential implications his death could have on the stability and continuity of the Russian regime.

Mikhail Myshustin, the current Prime Minister of Russia, has potential to succeed Putin due to his expertise in economics, tax reform, and digitalization, although his lack of a strong power base and questionable relationships with powerful figures in the security apparatus may pose challenges to his candidacy.

Deep dives

The fascination with Putin's alleged illnesses and mortality

There is a willingness among Western media outlets to explore stories about Putin's alleged illnesses or mortality. The lack of credible information about his health and private life fuels rumors and speculation. This fascination with Putin's health is driven by a combination of factors, including the secretive nature of his regime and the potential implications his death could have. The personalistic nature of the Russian system, which has revolved around Putin for over two decades, raises concerns about the future stability and continuity of the regime.

Introduction

3min

Speculation on Putin's Health and Leadership Change

23min

Implications of Putin's Potential Death and Introduction of His Possible Successor

3min

Career path, digitization, and techno-authoritarianism in government administration

3min

Michigan: Putin's Head Butler

10min

Speculating on the Next Leader and Michigan's Potential

2min

In what sounds more like a scene from Armando Ianucci's Death of Stalin, an anonymous Telegram channel tells us Putin is dead, his body stuffed into deep freeze while Patrushev takes over. Credible? Not really, but that doesn't stop many Western media outlets running with the story. So, why this fascination with Putin's health, why does it matter, and what do I think would happen, if Putin really did die in office?

As a natural follow on, in the second part, I look at PM Mikhail Mishustin's chances of being the successor: his best asset may be his very lack of allies...

The podcast's corporate partner and sponsor is Conducttr, which provides software for innovative and immersive crisis exercises in hybrid warfare, counter-terrorism, civil affairs and similar situations.

You can also follow my blog, In Moscow's Shadows, and become one of the podcast's supporting Patrons and gain question-asking rights and access to exclusive extra materials right here.

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