Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia and Eastern Europe editor for The Economist, offers a deep dive into the sham nature of Russia’s upcoming elections, spotlighting how the absence of opposition creates a façade of democracy. He discusses potential protests and the implications for Putin's regime. Anne Rowe, the obituaries editor, pays tribute to the creator of Dragon Ball Z, weaving a nostalgic thread into the conversation. They also explore how the conflict in Sudan intertwines with the war in Ukraine, revealing a complex geopolitical struggle.
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insights INSIGHT
Russia's Sham Election
Russia's upcoming election is a mere formality, with Putin's victory predetermined.
It lacks genuine choice, resembling more of a ritualistic affirmation of power.
insights INSIGHT
Kremlin's Concerns
The Kremlin anticipates a controlled turnout, employing various tactics to ensure participation.
However, they fear a protest vote inspired by Alexei Navalny's call to action.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Navalny's Assassination
Navalny's murder, a month before the election, seems strategically timed.
It aimed to crush hope and reinforce Putin's message of absolute control.
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Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.
Journey to the West
Darwin L. Teilhet
Written by Darwin L. Teilhet in 1938, 'Journey to the West' is a novel that explores themes and settings of the American West. It is not related to the Chinese classic 'Journey to the West' but instead offers a unique perspective on the American frontier.
Wonder Island
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Akira Toriyama
Wonder Island is Toriyama Akira's first published graphic novel, marking the beginning of his successful career in manga. While details about the plot are scarce, it's significant as a stepping stone to his later works like Dr. Slump and Dragon Ball. The book likely showcases his early artistic style and storytelling abilities, laying the foundation for his unique blend of humor and action that would define his future creations. Its success, or lack thereof, is unknown, but it undoubtedly played a crucial role in his journey to becoming a manga legend.
Voting begins today in an election that has already been won – all the opposition politicians are dead, in prison or in exile. Vladimir Putin wants to give the illusion of legitimacy. Will the rumblings of a protest deprive him of that goal? There is evidence that Sudan is becoming the latest theatre of the Ukraine war (09:25). And, a tribute to the father of Dragon Ball Z (15:49).
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