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
Nov 12, 2023 • 43min
In Moscow's Shadows 122: Taking on Conventional Wisdom About Putin
Exploring the accuracy of conventional assumptions about Putin, including his consistency and need for war. Discussing the emerging opposition in Russia and the impact of public opinion. Examining Putin's ability to maintain a national mission without a shooting war. Highlighting the importance of being realistic in negotiating with Putin.
5 snips
Nov 4, 2023 • 52min
In Moscow's Shadows 121: Making Sense of Makhachkala
Exploring implications of an anti-Semitic riot in Makhachkala airport and tensions in Russian society. Protests in North Caucasus, rising anti-Semitism, and delayed response from security forces. Examining motivations, antisemitism, and Kremlin's support for Hamas. Crisis in Makhachkala and its potential implications for the Kremlin. Investigation involving Alexander Bastrikin and perceptions of national unity in Russia. The North Caucasus as an imperial possession and its impact on the Kremlin.
4 snips
Oct 29, 2023 • 44min
In Moscow's Shadows 120: Putin is Dead! (well, probably not)
Rumors of Putin's death circulate, media outlets react. Speculation on implications of Putin's potential death and possible successor. Career path of the director of the federal tax service. Role of PM Michigan and his actions since replacing Mediviriev. Speculating on the next leader and Michigan's potential.
5 snips
Oct 22, 2023 • 59min
In Moscow's Shadows 119: Manifestos to the Left of me, Manifestos to the Right
The podcast discusses the contrasting manifestos of Alexei Navalny and Nikolai Patrushev. It explores strategies for the opposition to Putin in the upcoming elections and the importance of Russian elections. The chapter also delves into ordinary Russians' concerns and tectonic changes in the world. Additionally, it examines the Russian perspective on critiquing the West, the Soviet Union's support of democratic leaders, and Russia's aspiration for leadership. Finally, it speculates on potential successors in Moscow and the battle between extremists and compromises.
4 snips
Oct 14, 2023 • 42min
In Moscow's Shadows 118: Clueless in Gaza - Russia and the current Middle East crisis
Analyzing Russia's potential role in the Israel-Gaza crisis, including the competence of Hamas versus the Russian armed forces, Russia's interest in Israel and the varying perspectives from Russian actors. The role of narratives in shaping public opinion and the media's portrayal of the crisis are also explored. The possibility of Hamas acquiring weapons and the likelihood of Russian involvement are questioned.
Oct 8, 2023 • 46min
In Moscow's Shadows 117: Security Politics and the President Who Can't Change His Spots
The podcast discusses the pressure on the Russian police, the National Guard entering the mercenary game, and the reformation of Wagner under Prigozhin's son. It explores the challenges faced by police officers in Russia, Putin's false narrative and performative expression of power, and the potential successor to Putin. The episode also touches on Roskavyadya's move into the mercenary business and speculations on Wagner's fate.
Oct 1, 2023 • 51min
In Moscow's Shadows 116: Putin's "Forever War" (which isn't)
Exploring the concept of a 'forever war' in Putin's Russia, including its manipulation and impact on the Russian underworld. Discussing Britain's historical policy in the Balkans and its potential role in special operations. Speculating on Ukraine's will to continue fighting and the challenges of achieving lasting peace. Examining the appeal of the film Chiborashka and the fallacy of a 'forever war' narrative. Exploring expressions of resistance and critiquing the Soviet party state's shortcomings.
Sep 24, 2023 • 1h 2min
In Moscow's Shadows 115: Kadyrov and the Conflict Entrepreneurs
In this episode, the guest discusses Ramzan Kadyrov and the concept of 'conflict entrepreneurs' in Russia, highlighting the violence and personalistic nature of power in Chechnya. The potential departure of Kadyrov from Chechnya and its implications are explored, along with the rumors surrounding his health. The transformation of the Chechen elite and the profitability of conflicts, such as in Donbass and Ukraine, are also discussed. The episode concludes by emphasizing the war as the driving force behind the Russian elite and promising future exploration of specific conflict entrepreneurs.
5 snips
Sep 10, 2023 • 53min
In Moscow's Shadows 114: Six of the Best (?)
Guests: Dmitri Medvedev, Anton Siluanov, Sergei Surovikin, Sergei Sobyanin, Valentin Konovalov, Sergei Aksenov. This podcast explores the rise of dynasties in Russian politics, the shift in Russia's direction, personal relationships in the military and insights into the current situation in Russia, a political career in Moscow, and the potential dangers of Late Putinism.
Sep 3, 2023 • 52min
In Moscow's Shadows 113: And Goodnight Wagner?
Explore the future of Wagner, a Russian mercenary group, in Africa and its potential relevance and deals. Discover Russia's strategic goals in Africa and its growing influence, as well as the perception and impacts of Wagner both domestically and internationally. Also, delve into the lessons learned by the Russian military from the Afghanistan war.
