ChinaTalk The Soviets' Bid for Global Power
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Mar 24, 2025 Sergey Radchenko, author of "To Run the World: The Kremlin’s Bid for Global Power," explores the motivations and absurdities of Soviet and Chinese leaders in their pursuit of global prestige. He delves into Stalin's colonial ambitions, Khrushchev's economic failures, and the complex Sino-Soviet relations shaped by Cold War dynamics. The discussion offers intriguing anecdotes, including humorous interactions between leaders and insights into the historical significance of legitimacy in international politics. Radchenko’s perspective reshapes our understanding of past and present global power struggles.
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Soviet Legitimacy
- The Soviets craved external legitimacy due to a lack of internal legitimacy stemming from the failing communist project.
- This desire for external validation explains their pursuit of prestige and recognition on the world stage.
Stalin's Legitimacy Focus
- Stalin sometimes prioritized legitimacy over raw power, evidenced by his withdrawal of support for Xinjiang separatists.
- This decision, though sacrificing immediate control, secured legitimacy for other claims in China and shaped the Yalta framework.
Stalin's Sphere of Influence
- Stalin desired a concert of powers where his sphere of influence was recognized, demonstrated by the percentages agreement with Churchill.
- While cynical, Stalin took these percentages seriously, showing his desire for external validation of his control over Eastern Europe.
