Judging Freedom Dr. Gilbert Doctorow : The Russians and Their War.
Nov 12, 2025
Dr. Gilbert Doctorow, an experienced analyst of Russian and European affairs, dives deep into the complexities of Russian politics and the implications of the Ukraine war. He discusses the internal power struggle between the FSB and the Foreign Ministry, highlighting how these dynamics shape national policies. Doctorow also critiques the government's crackdown on VPNs and new SIM restrictions. He analyzes the war's impact on Russian society, public sentiment, and the military strategy, ultimately revealing the multifaceted nature of support and criticism for Putin.
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Two Competing Currents In Kremlin Policy
- Russia's government houses two opposing currents: the open, diplomatic wing and the repressive FSB wing.
- The FSB-driven measures, like cutting WhatsApp voice, actively isolate Russians from the world.
WhatsApp Voice Cut For Russians
- WhatsApp lost voice calling in Russia while text still works, removing free international voice calls.
- That change forced Russians to rely on domestic phone networks for voice communication.
SIM Rules That Cut Off Travelers
- Authorities first stripped foreigners of the right to hold Russian SIMs, then moved to block returning Russians' numbers.
- Millions of travelers can arrive home effectively cut off until they re-verify with carriers.