Mark Galeotti

Mark Galeotti, a noted historian and expert on Russian organized crime, delves into Vladimir Putin's significant rise from a humble St. Petersburg upbringing to becoming a political titan. He explores Putin's early affiliations with organized crime, his roles within Moscow's power structure, and how his reputation for discretion earned him trust among the elite. Galeotti also discusses the strategic use of corruption as a means of control, suggesting that Putin's ascent was less about ambition and more about seizing available opportunities.

Join historian Mark Galeotti, an expert on Russian security and organized crime, as he unpacks Vladimir Putin's formative KGB years in East Germany. Discover how Putin navigated a chilling environment under Stasi control and the chaos surrounding the August 1991 coup. Galeotti reveals the operational failures that led to its downfall and how Putin's responses during this turbulent time shaped his path to power. Get ready for a thrilling dive into the shadowy world of espionage and the rise of an authoritarian leader.

Mark Galeotti, a leading expert on Russian organized crime and security services, joins the hosts to delve into Vladimir Putin's intriguing beginnings. He shares insights on Putin's modest roots in Leningrad and the harsh realities of his youth that fueled his ambition. The conversation reveals how Putin's drive for social mobility led him to join the KGB, a bold move motivated by a quest for significance and security. Galeotti discusses the streetwise toughness that shaped Putin's character, positioning him for a powerful future.

Sarah Rainsford, a BBC correspondent focused on Eastern Europe and the Ukraine war, joins Mark Galeotti, a noted Russia expert, and Tim Whewell, who covers Poland-Ukraine relations. They discuss the potential implications of a Trump presidency in 2025 on U.S. military aid to Ukraine and the ongoing conflict. The challenges of peace negotiations are examined, along with the impact on Ukrainian society from conscription issues. Additionally, they delve into the changing dynamics in Russia and historical tensions affecting Poland's support for Ukraine.

Mark Galeotti, a British historian and author specializing in Russia, discusses the formidable threats facing democracies like Ukraine and Taiwan from aggressive powers. He examines the shifting landscape in Russia from Yeltsin to Putin, revealing the complex dynamics of leadership. The conversation touches on Zelensky's surprising transformation into a wartime leader, the grim realities of military strikes in Kiev, and the intricate ties between governance and organized crime in conflict zones. Galeotti also reflects on Moscow's global influence with a touch of humor.

Mark Galeotti, a leading expert on Russia, and Andriy Zagorodnyuk, the former Ukrainian Minister of Defence, dive into the potential end of the Ukraine conflict amidst shifting U.S. dynamics. They discuss Trump's controversial claim of resolving the war swiftly and Ukraine's strategic concerns surrounding a potential ceasefire. The conversation highlights the complexities of U.S. foreign policy, the need for robust Western support, and the risks that a pause in fighting could pose. Additionally, they explore forming a global coalition to reinforce Ukraine's position in the geopolitical landscape.

Mark Galeotti, a seasoned Russia expert and author, dives into the internal struggles within Putin's Kremlin. He discusses Igor Girkin's critical remarks about military mismanagement and their implications for the regime's stability. Galeotti outlines how Girkin's critiques resonate with Russian nationalists. He also touches on Ukraine's strategic strikes impacting Russian fuel supplies and the challenges of Western intelligence support. Lastly, Galeotti highlights the necessity for Ukraine to keep Europe and the US engaged amid ongoing conflicts.

Svitlana Morenets, a political writer for The Spectator, and Mark Galeotti, a historian specializing in Russian affairs, delve into President Zelensky's territorial ambitions amid the Ukraine-Russia conflict. They discuss Ukraine's recent military victories and the implications for global power dynamics. Additionally, they explore the intriguing resurgence of the banking industry and the grim realities of falling fertility rates worldwide, raising concerns about demographic shifts. Lastly, they touch on nostalgia's complex emotional landscape and its cultural significance in modern society.

Mark Galeotti, a British historian and expert on Russian security and crime, offers a nuanced view of Vladimir Putin. He argues that viewing Putin as merely a villain oversimplifies his character and leadership. The podcast delves into Putin's evolving power dynamics, the paradoxes of authoritarian governance, and the challenges facing the Russian military amid ongoing conflicts. Galeotti also explores the historical context of Putin's legacy and speculates on Russia's future leadership landscape, emphasizing the need for engagement with ordinary Russians.

Mark Galeotti, an expert in Russian security affairs, and Anthony Loyd, a special correspondent reporting from Kyiv, dive into the precarious situation in Ukraine following the Trump-Putin summit. They discuss Zelensky's diplomatic efforts in Washington and the mounting pressure on Ukraine to consider territorial concessions. The episode probes the implications of the summit for U.S. negotiations and the heightened geopolitical tensions in the Donbass region. The discussion sheds light on Ukrainian public sentiment and the strategic challenges facing the nation amid ongoing conflict.