In Moscow's Shadows
Mark Galeotti
Russia, behind the headlines as well as in the shadows. This podcast is the audio counterpart to Mark Galeotti's blog of the same name, a place where "one of the most informed and provocative voices on modern Russia", can talk about Russia historical and (more often) contemporary, discuss new books and research, and sometimes talk to other Russia-watchers. If you'd like to keep the podcast coming and generally support my work, or want to ask questions or suggest topics for me to cover, do please contribute to my Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/InMoscowsShadowsThe 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
11 snips
Aug 31, 2025 • 45min
In Moscow's Shadows 214: Law and Lawlessness in Late Putinism (or, Late Brezhnevism redux)
The podcast dives into the paradox of law and lawlessness in contemporary Russia, spotlighting the FSB's push for greater surveillance amid claims of arrests. It discusses the appointment of a new chair for the Supreme Court and its implications for judicial independence. Corruption is on the rise, with a 16% increase in cases, raising concerns about the survival of state integrity. The blending of prosecutorial and judicial powers poses a threat to genuine legal reform, painting a grim picture of a system influenced by power and predatory practices.
23 snips
Aug 24, 2025 • 50min
In Moscow's Shadows 213: Foreign Agents in Russia, Foreigners in Ukraine...
Explore the intriguing case of Sergei Markov, recently labeled a Foreign Agent amidst Russia's tensions with Azerbaijan. Delve into the complexities of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and its stalled peace negotiations, while highlighting how foreign influences shape regional dynamics. Discover the motivations of volunteers in Ukraine's foreign legion through compelling narratives. The podcast also critiques modern moral dilemmas of wartime perspectives, urging a nuanced understanding of the conflict and its implications.
36 snips
Aug 17, 2025 • 46min
In Moscow's Shadows 212: War and Peace and Alaska
The recent summit in Alaska springs humorous reflections on its symbolic meanings and Russia's global standing. U.S.-Russia relations are dissected, revealing military and diplomatic intricacies that shape peace talks. The podcast navigates the rocky terrain of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, pondering the delicate balance required for meaningful negotiations. Amidst war complexities, it contemplates a possible pragmatic peace while assessing the unpredictable landscape of the conflict in Russia, highlighting strategic losses and the need for new discussions.
42 snips
Aug 10, 2025 • 46min
In Moscow's Shadows 211: Trump, Putin, Alaska...
The impending Trump-Putin summit in Alaska raises questions about possible outcomes for Ukraine. Experts dissect the shifting public sentiment and the hurdles facing Zelensky in peace negotiations. The complexities of negotiating a deal that respects Ukraine's sovereignty are explored, highlighting the need for accountability to deter further Russian aggression. Skepticism surrounds the proposed UK-French coalition for securing Ukraine's airspace, underscoring the intricate geopolitical landscape and the challenges of diplomacy in this ongoing conflict.
6 snips
Jul 27, 2025 • 45min
In Moscow's Shadows 210: Is Russia Being Sentenced To The Digital Gulag?
The podcast dives into Russia's alarming shift towards a 'digital gulag,' where online freedoms are threatened by new laws banning messaging apps. It underscores the generational divide on tech perceptions, comparing today’s struggles to Soviet-era censorship. The conversation also touches on the implications for Ukraine's anti-corruption efforts amidst ongoing conflict and skepticism about security reforms. This exploration raises critical questions about digital sovereignty and how state control might backfire, weakening the regime's grasp on power.
6 snips
Jul 20, 2025 • 52min
In Moscow's Shadows 209: Eagle, Dragon, Bear - how the Ukraine war drives Moscow into Beijing's orbit
The podcast delves into the complicated dynamics shaping the Russia-China alliance amidst the Ukraine conflict. It discusses how recent sanctions are influencing this relationship and explores the balance of power between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. Ceasefire negotiations are highlighted, revealing the complexities and geopolitical repercussions involved. Additionally, generational perspectives on this shifting alliance showcase a cultural backlash and a desire for a unique Russian identity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Jul 13, 2025 • 57min
In Moscow's Shadows 208: 5 Million Downloads and Counting! A Q&A Compilation
The podcast celebrates over 5 million downloads while addressing diverse patron questions. It tackles Russia's military struggles post-2022 and NATO tensions, revealing economic motivations behind military enlistment. The relationship between Russia and China is explored, highlighting espionage and geopolitical maneuvers. Hungary's strategic positioning amid shifting alliances is examined, along with the resilience of the Russian regime and ultranationalist influences. The host reflects on bias in Russian analysis, maintaining a cautiously optimistic outlook on future democratic changes.
12 snips
Jul 6, 2025 • 45min
In Moscow's Shadows 207: What Is Going On Between Baku and Moscow?
Tensions are soaring between Azerbaijan and Russia after the arrest of an Azeri crime gang. The podcast dives into Azerbaijan's growing assertiveness, especially regarding Nagorno-Karabakh, while Russia's influence wanes. It delves into the complex interplay of nationalism, organized crime, and political dynamics shaping the region. Listeners are taken through the challenges faced by Russia's authority and the vulnerabilities of those outside Putin's circle, highlighting the broader implications of these events.
Jun 29, 2025 • 57min
In Moscow's Shadows 206: Corruption, Putinism's Achilles' Heel
The podcast dives deep into the rampant corruption plaguing Russia’s governance. Officials openly admit corruption is on the rise, particularly at the top, leading to a lack of political will to address it. Listeners learn about significant arrests and how political rivalries complicate genuine anti-corruption efforts. The discussion highlights the broader societal decline and dissatisfaction with enforcement, especially as wartime mismanagement exacerbates state failures. It also critiques NATO's response to perceived threats, contrasting military tactics with the intricacies of disinformation.
Jun 22, 2025 • 59min
In Moscow's Shadows 205: The Peace Crisis that faces Russia after the Ukraine War
The discussion dives into the looming challenges for Russia as the Ukraine war may come to a close. It highlights the complex narratives shaping public perception and critiques of Putin's regime. The aftermath of military leadership issues, including low morale and societal reintegration of veterans, raises concerns. The stark parallels to the Soviet-Afghan War emphasize historical lessons learned. Additionally, potential rises in organized crime and violent crime in a post-war Russia hint at significant security risks.
