Chain Reaction
The War’s Impact On Russia's Regional Power Dynamics
May 8, 2025
András Tóth-Czifra, a Fellow in the Eurasia Program at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, discusses the complexities of Russia's regional power dynamics amid the ongoing war. He highlights the Kremlin's tightening grip on regional politics and the resulting pushback from local elites. The conversation delves into how centralization has altered leadership structures and economic conditions across regions, creating both winners and losers. Tóth-Czifra raises concerns about the sustainability of this strategy and the potential for heightened tensions within the Russian government.
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Quick takeaways
- The Kremlin's centralization of power has led to the appointment of loyal governors, diminishing regional elite influence and autonomy.
- Economic pressures from the war have strained regional budgets, limiting funding for essential services while prioritizing military expenditures.
Deep dives
Regional Political Dynamics in Russia
The war in Ukraine has significantly altered the landscape of regional politics in Russia, highlighting a trend toward increased centralization of power. This shift has been marked by the Kremlin's effort to appoint governors with stronger federal ties, reducing the influence of local elites. For example, new appointments such as Dmitry Mishin in Khabarovsk reflect a preference for leaders with connections to law enforcement or federal agencies rather than established regional figures. Consequently, regional governors are now tasked with additional responsibilities, including war management and local economic oversight, amidst growing tensions with local power brokers facing diminished autonomy.
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