The recent BRICS summit in Kazan is a key focus, revealing Putin's attempts to reshape Russia's global image while showcasing the transactional nature of alliances with nations like China and Iran. The discussion touches on Russia's complex political landscape, drawing parallels with past decades of instability, crime, and mysticism. Economic challenges are explored, especially in light of recent interest rates and the ongoing impact of the Ukraine conflict. The analysis concludes with reflections on modern governance's stagnation, reminiscent of historical socio-political declines.

Delve into the intriguing alliance between North Korea and Russia, with eye-opening discussions on North Korean troops potentially heading to Ukraine. Explore the historical role of Asian soldiers in European conflicts, viewing them through a lens of support rather than aggression. Unpack the media's sensationalized narratives around North Korean involvement and the importance of skepticism in reporting. Lastly, consider the complexities of modern warfare and how global interconnectedness shapes current and future conflicts.

Dive into the murky waters of Russian politics and espionage as Sergei Korolev emerges as a key player poised to lead the FSB. Explore the tangled web of power, corruption, and clientelism in 1990s St. Petersburg that shaped the current security landscape. The discussion uncovers the dangerous implications of Korolev's rise amidst ongoing crises, alongside a spotlight on lavish lifestyles and loyalty issues among security forces. Dramatic power struggles and the shadowy dealings make for a captivating analysis of Russia's elite world.

The tumultuous world of the emigre liberal opposition to Putin feels like a soap opera, filled with scandals and power struggles. Generational divides complicate the fight against the regime, as older and newer activists clash over strategies. Personal egos and funding issues create obstacles to collaboration. The morality of collective guilt for the war is debated, emphasizing the need for nuance in understanding individual responsibilities. Amidst these complexities, the future of resistance calls for unity and fresh ideas.

Delve into the enigmatic world of GUSP, Russia's most secretive security agency, rumored to shield the president from psychic threats. Explore the fascinating tales of Moscow's secret Metro 2 transport system, a mix of myth and reality. Discover the critical role of memoirs in understanding history, featuring insights from an intriguing microbiologist's life under Stalin. Get a glimpse into the intricate workings of GUSP as it navigates power and fear, shaping Russia's security landscape.

Putin escalates nuclear fears, raising questions about his intentions and the implications for Ukraine. Delve into the complexities of Russia's nuclear doctrine and how recent military exercises reflect geopolitical strategy. The conversation critiques the use of nuclear threats as tactical leverage while examining the broader consequences of these maneuvers. Finally, the podcast offers insights into the psychological aspects influencing Putin's decisions and the evolving nature of deterrence in modern warfare.

Sergei Shoigu, the new Security Council Secretary, navigates a complex political landscape with deft diplomacy skills and a focus on bolstering ties with Iran. He shares insights on the internal workings of Russia's Security Council, emphasizing its role in decision-making over open debate. The discussion probes recent diplomatic moves with North Korea, China, and Syria, revealing a shifting negotiation stance during Ukraine's ongoing conflict. Shoigu assesses President Zelensky's 'victory plan' and the intricate dynamics influencing future negotiations in the war.

Get ready for a wild ride through Moscow's gritty business scene! A shocking shootout reveals how personal feuds can fuel corporate warfare, involving sports figures as enforcers. Tune in to hear about the eerie return of corporate raiding reminiscent of the 1990s. Discover the Kremlin's latest revenue-boosting strategies and the potential public backlash. Plus, learn about a major general's arrest amidst a military corruption crackdown—are these real reforms or just political maneuvers? Power struggles and corruption intertwine in this fascinating exploration!

In this discussion, Prince Bogdoi, an expert on 17th-century Russian imperial history, draws fascinating parallels to modern Russia. He unpacks the historical miscommunication that led to underestimating Chinese power and mirrors it with today's challenges in the Russian military. The conversation also touches on the perception of Putin's red lines and the dynamics of power within authoritarian regimes. Additionally, they delve into the complexities of governance and the integrity of Russian census data, highlighting the chaotic information landscape.

This week features a whirlwind of topics, from drones buzzing over Moscow to the ripple effects of U.S. presidential debates on Russian politics. Recent regional elections reveal a surprising dip in pro-Kremlin support, sparking discussion about public sentiment and ballot spoiling as protest. Demographic challenges are under the microscope, highlighting initiatives aimed at boosting birth rates amid contrasting personal choices of political figures. The landscape is further complicated by political extremism, with loyalty battles shifting priorities among parliamentarians.