The Rachman Review
The making of Vladimir Putin
Mar 27, 2025
Catherine Belton, an award-winning journalist for the Washington Post, and Arkady Ostrovsky, a prominent author for The Economist, delve into Vladimir Putin’s ambitions. They explore his quest to re-establish Russia as a global superpower, reflecting on the costs involved. The duo examines his rise from obscurity to dominance, the shift in his relationship with the West, and the complex dynamics between him and Donald Trump. Their insights shed light on the psychological motivations behind strongman leadership in today’s geopolitics.
28:50
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Quick takeaways
- Vladimir Putin's rise to power has been significantly bolstered by ongoing military conflicts, allowing him to consolidate domestic control while enhancing Russia's international standing.
- The relationship between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump illustrates a mutual alignment of strongman politics, posing potential risks to Western unity and democratic values.
Deep dives
Putin's Evolution and Current Validation
Vladimir Putin has transitioned from a seemingly weak leader to a powerful figure over his nearly 25 years in office. His initial rise was marked by a calculated reflection of others' expectations, allowing him to gain trust and ascend through the Russian political ranks. Currently, he perceives his actions as being validated by global events, particularly with the rise of leaders like Donald Trump, whom he views as allies in challenging the liberal world order. This ongoing shift signifies that Putin feels his historical mission is unfolding as he intended, further bolstered by geopolitical developments he claims to orchestrate.
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