Russian Roulette The Increased Level of Repressions Within the Russian Elite
Nov 20, 2025
Nikolay Petrov, a senior research fellow focused on Russia's elite dynamics, and Mikhail Troitskiy, a scholar on Russian politics, delve into the repressive climate facing Russia's ruling class. They discuss the historical continuity of elites, comparing transitions from the Soviet era to now. The duo also examines the dual-track signaling that reassured globalized elites pre-invasion and highlights how recent purges serve purposes of governance and populism. Petrov outlines the evolving landscape of repression and the implications for future power dynamics.
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Nepotism And Soviet Continuity Aren't The Whole Story
- Project investigation confirms strong nepotism and Soviet-era elite continuity but is more journalism than deep political analysis.
- Nikolay Petrov warns managerial dynasties don't equal true hereditary rule and may fade after Putin.
Dual-Track Messaging Kept Elites Quiescent
- Mikhail Troitskiy argues the Kremlin used dual-track signaling to reassure globalized elites before the 2022 invasion.
- That tailored messaging demobilized potential elite dissent despite visible troop buildup.
Elites As Functionaries, Not Political Actors
- Nikolay Petrov says Russian elites function as constrained managers, not independent political actors.
- He argues they focus on executing orders and avoiding punishment rather than shaping policy.