In Moscow's Shadows 152: Prigozhin's Mutiny, One Year On
Jun 23, 2024
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One year after Prigozhin's Wagner mutiny, questions arise about his fate. The podcast delves into his influence, connections with Putin, and the aftermath of the mutiny. It also explores the upbringing of key figures in Russian history, their criminal beginnings, and survival in Soviet penal camps.
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Quick takeaways
Prigozhin's criminal background shaped his rise to power in post-Soviet Russia.
Prison experience honed Prigozhin's entrepreneurial skills and adaptability in the criminal underworld.
Prigozhin's success was fueled by connections, intimidation tactics, and navigating chaotic environments.
Deep dives
Prigozhin's Early Life and Criminal Beginnings
Yevgeny Prigozhin's transformation from a middle-class Soviet intelligentsia family member to a young criminal involved in theft and robbery is detailed. Despite opportunities and a decent childhood, Prigozhin turned to a life of crime out of frustration and ambition, leading to multiple arrests and prison sentences.
Immersing in the Criminal Subculture
While serving his sentences in Soviet penal colonies, Prigozhin immersed himself in the criminal underworld, learning the rules and codes of conduct of the Vorovskoy Mir. He earned respect through force of character, established ventures within the colonies for profit, and displayed adaptability in navigating the informal power dynamics.
Transition to Entrepreneurship
Upon release in 1990, Prigozhin's entrepreneurial instincts, nurtured during his time in prison, enabled him to build a diverse business empire. His ability to forge connections with influential individuals, balance multiple enterprises, and leverage intimidation marked his transition to a successful entrepreneur in the changing landscape of post-Soviet Russia.
Adapting to New Challenges in Post-Soviet Russia
As Prigozhin emerged into a Russia marred by economic turmoil and rising crime, his skills honed in the penal system proved valuable. The era of the 1990s demanded ambition, cunning, and a readiness to navigate a chaotic and ruthless environment, qualities that Prigozhin possessed and utilized to thrive in this precarious new world.
Parallel Paths with Vladimir Putin
Prigozhin's trajectory intersects with Vladimir Putin's return to a post-Soviet Russia in crisis, highlighting the shared need for adaptation and the acquisition of skills suited to the emerging realities. Both figures faced a transformed society where violence, enterprise, and shrewdness were pivotal, setting the stage for their eventual intertwined destinies.
Exactly one year after Prigozhin's Wagner mercenary army began its mutiny, what has changed, and what can be learned? And why are so many Russians so keen to believe Prigozhin himself is not dead?
In the second half of this bumper episode, the full first chapter of the audiobook of my and Anna Arutunyan's new book Downfall. Prigozhin, Putin, and the new fight for the future of Russia (Ebury/Penguin, 2024). Out now in the UK and Europe, out in September in the US.
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.
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