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Foreign Podicy

Disinformation and the Surreal Heart of the New Russia

Feb 27, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Peter Pomerantsev, a senior fellow at the NSF Agora Institute and expert on Russian propaganda, teams up with Ivana Stradner, a research fellow focusing on Russia's security strategies. They dive into the surreal landscape of Russian disinformation, revealing how media consumption has evolved under authoritarianism. They also highlight the stark contrast between Ukraine's push for democracy and Russia's entrenched regime. The conversation touches on the complexities of Putin's legacy and the ongoing struggle for freedom amidst sophisticated propaganda tactics.
54:43

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The disillusionment experienced by those who anticipated a democratic transformation in post-Soviet Russia contrasts sharply with the current authoritarian reality driven by propaganda.
  • The podcast highlights the detrimental impact of information fragmentation on public discourse in the U.S., making it difficult to establish a unified national consensus.

Deep dives

Personal Experiences and Cultural Reflections

The speaker shares personal experiences from their time as an exchange student at Leningrad State University in 1972, where they may have interacted with Vladimir Putin, reflecting on the anticipation of a post-Soviet Russia. Initially believing that the end of the Soviet Union would lead to a liberating transformation, they express disappointment at the current state of Russia. They reminisce about the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Russia, revealing a deep love for its music, literature, and art. The contrast between these hopes and the reality of contemporary Russia serves to highlight the disillusionment felt by many who expected a more democratic and free society.

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