Discover the Kremlin's Cold War strategies, insights into Soviet leaders' mindsets, and historical anecdotes like Stalin's permission for the Korean invasion. Uncover untold stories from newly discovered documents and the impact of individual leaders on global events.
The Kremlin's Cold War strategy was not a predetermined global domination plan but a flexible opportunistic approach influenced by the actions of the United States.
Chinese influence on Soviet decision-making during the Cold War revealed the unexpected significance of China in shaping pivotal events and strategies.
Deep dives
Sergei Redchenko's Motivation to Write His Book
Professor Sergei Redchenko embarked on writing his book, 'To Run the World,' after gaining unprecedented access to previously undisclosed documents from Moscow and China. This prolonged 10-year project was fueled by a dual purpose: delving into the unknown narratives of the Cold War and humanizing the Soviet and Chinese leaders by unraveling their personal motivations and decision-making processes.
Stalin's Strategic Vision Post-Second World War
Stalin's post-Second World War strategic vision was not an absolute blueprint for global communism domination but an opportunistic approach. Soviet policymakers anticipated Soviet dominance in Europe post-World War II but were surprised by the United States' active involvement in European affairs, sparking the transition from post-war peace to the Cold War.
Role of China in Cold War Dynamics
China played a crucial role in Soviet decision-making during the Cold War, influencing Soviet strategies and reactions. The Soviet policymakers closely monitored Chinese responses to foreign policy decisions, highlighting the unexpected significance of China in pivotal events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Leadership Struggle Between Soviet Union and China
The intricate relationship between Soviet and Chinese leaders was marked by ideological clashes and power struggles, leading to a deep-rooted animosity between the two nations. As the Soviets expected deference from China, Mao Zedong's refusal to bow to Moscow's leadership ignited a fierce confrontation, eventually culminating in a split between the two communist powerhouses.
In this Bonus episode of Battle Lines, The Telegraph's David Knowles speaks to Professor Sergrey Radchenko to discuss his upcoming book 'To Run The World: The Kremlin's Cold War Bid for Global Power'. Professor Radchenko's shares with us what he discovered about the psychology of the Kremlin's decision-making during the Cold War and what this can tell us about Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.
Contributors:
David Knowles (Host) @djknowles22 on X.
Sergey Radchenko (Wilson E. Schmidt Distinguished Professor @KissingerCenter