In Moscow's Shadows

In Moscow's Shadows 151: From Switzerland to SMERSH

Jun 16, 2024

Discussion on Ukraine's peace plan and Putin's negotiation conditions, potential revival of SMERSH in Russia, survey insights on future talks, and rise of ultra-nationalism and Stalin's rehabilitation in Russia.

45:18

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Quick takeaways

The Ukraine peace summit highlighted global support for Zelensky's 10-point plan, focusing on nuclear security and food security.

Calls to revive Stalin's Smersh indicate a rise in ultra-nationalism in Russia, posing cultural and political challenges.

Deep dives

The Ukraine Peace Summit and Zelensky's Demands

The Ukraine peace summit aimed to support Zelensky's 10-point peace plan, demanding the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine. Only three points found consensus, focusing on nuclear security, food security, and prisoner exchange. The summit highlighted global support for Ukraine's demands but led to limited progress in broader peace negotiations.

Intro

10min

Public Opinion in Ukraine on Conflict with Russia

15min

Exploring Potential Future Outcomes for Ukraine and the Role of Militarization

3min

Discussion on the Historical Significance and Speculations about the Revival of SMERSH in Russia

13min

Rise of Ultra-Nationalism and Stalin's Rehabilitation in Russia

5min

Ukraine's Ten Point Peace Plan, which received only limited endorsement at the recent Swiss Peace Summit, is essentially a demand for Russia's surrender. Putin's recent statement of conditions for negotiations is likewise a call for Kyiv to capitulate. Is this a complete impasse? Yes and no -- they are best considered as 'pre-peace positioning' in preparation for any future talks, whenever they happen, and a survey arranged by the Carnegie Endowment gives some interesting insights as to how that may go.

In the second half, I address the periodic claims that Russia needs to re-establish SMERSH, Stalin's infamous 'Death to Spies' murder squad. Is this likely, or simply a toxic by-product of Putin's rehabilitation of the dictator?

The Carnegie survey's full results are here.

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.

You can also follow my blog, In Moscow's Shadows, and become one of the podcast's supporting Patrons and gain question-asking rights and access to exclusive extra materials right here.

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