Anne Applebaum, a prominent staff writer for The Atlantic and expert on authoritarianism, joins Yascha Mounk for a captivating discussion. They delve into the ideology of 'Putinism' and explore what a Ukrainian victory could entail. Applebaum examines the complexities of modern dictatorships, exposing the facade of totalitarianism and the impact of propaganda in Russia. The conversation highlights strategies for combating authoritarianism, emphasizing the importance of strong democratic alliances and addressing issues like kleptocracy. It's an insightful look at resilience amidst oppression.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Disagreement on Ukrainian Resistance
Anne Applebaum argued with an American analyst who predicted a swift Russian victory.
She questioned if Ukrainians would fight back, highlighting differing perspectives on the conflict.
insights INSIGHT
Existential Stakes for Ukrainians
Ukrainian resistance stems from their understanding of the consequences of Russian occupation.
They are fighting for their way of life, unlike some Russian conscripts.
insights INSIGHT
Corruption's Impact on Russian Military
The failures of the Russian army reflect deep societal issues and corruption.
This corruption affects the military's preparedness and effectiveness.
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In 'Iron Curtain', Anne Applebaum provides a detailed history of how Stalin and his agents imposed communism on Eastern Europe, transforming the lives of millions. The book explores the mechanisms of tyranny, including the role of secret police and the suppression of civil society, drawing on newly opened archives and personal accounts.
Red Famine
Stalin's War on Ukraine
Anne Applebaum
Gulag: A History
A History of the Soviet Camps
Anne Applebaum
In 'Gulag: A History', Anne Applebaum provides a detailed and documented history of the Soviet camp system. The book covers the chronological history of the camps, from their establishment in 1918 to their expansion under Stalin and their eventual collapse. Applebaum draws on Soviet-era archives, diaries, and writings of camp survivors to describe the lives and deaths of inmates, including their arrest, interrogation, transportation, and living conditions. The book also examines the cultural and social aspects of life within the Gulag, including its own laws, customs, literature, and morality. It is recognized as a landmark work of historical scholarship and an essential contribution to understanding the history of the twentieth century.
Anne Applebaum is a staff writer for The Atlantic and a Senior Fellow of the Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University. In her books - most notably Red Famine: Stalin’s War on Ukraine and Iron Curtain: The Crushing of Eastern Europe she has chronicled the terrible human costs of past attempts by Russia to dominate countries in Central and Eastern Europe.
In this week’s conversation, Anne Applebaum and Yascha Mounk discuss the developing ideology of "Putinism," what it would look like for Ukraine to win the war, and how democracies can defend their values in a world of resurgent authoritarianism.
The Good Fight 
