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
7 snips
Feb 18, 2024 • 1h 1min
In Moscow's Shadows 135: Navalny in the late Soviet Union
Exploring Navalny's impact in Russia, comparing late Soviet era to Putinism, analyzing power dynamics, discussing bottom-up resistance and charismatic leadership, and reflecting on hope in resisting authoritarian control.
8 snips
Feb 11, 2024 • 55min
In Moscow's Shadows 134: Kaliningrad still at the Crossroads
Discover the strategic significance and vulnerabilities of the Russian exclave Kaliningrad, its potential reconnection with Europe, and the governor's focus on economic development. Explore the limitations of war games for prediction and the importance of intellectual humility. Engage in analysis and prediction exercises for enjoyment and learning.
5 snips
Feb 4, 2024 • 50min
In Moscow's Shadows 133: Books on Russia, Books on Ukraine
An exploration of recent books on Russia and Ukraine. The speaker offers insights on each book and plans to continue with the comparative approach. Analyzes 'Getting Russia Right', emphasizing learning from mistakes. Reviews books on the complexities and interconnectedness between Russia and Ukraine. Discusses books on the conflict, highlighting the impact of events and entangled histories. Delves into 'Pabor-O-Givel' on Zelensky and provides analysis of the war in the small town of Osnesensk. Concludes with reflections on bravery, critiques of Putin, and book recommendations.
Jan 28, 2024 • 49min
In Moscow's Shadows 132: A View from the Provinces
Explore the overlooked provinces of Russia through the lens of the Komi Republic. Understand grassroots propaganda, socioeconomic conditions, and political marginalization in this resource-dependent region. Learn about discrediting the army, controversial trials, risks and surveillance, and the importance of publicizing resistance and engaging with regional findings in Russia.
6 snips
Jan 21, 2024 • 1h 9min
In Moscow's Shadows 131: European Strategy and Vorobyov's Prospects
Dilemmas and limitations facing European strategy over Ukraine. Hungary's actions and the changing perspective of Europeans. Challenges in developing a strategy in response to Putin's attack. Sequestering Russian assets for Ukraine's economic recovery. Exploring Andre Varabiov's potential as president. Rise and fall of a former minister of finance. The potential rise of Vorybov and his qualities as a successor.
Jan 14, 2024 • 46min
In Moscow's Shadows 130: Questions I Can't Answer
The podcast discusses unanswered questions regarding Russia's patience, the next disruptor, and a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. It also explores corruption in Russian settlements, uncertainties of the war in Ukraine, and the importance of analyzing based on facts.
Jan 7, 2024 • 40min
In Moscow's Shadows 129: It's All About Putin's Eggs
Explore the egg crisis in Putin's Russia, with insights on the historical context of food-related protests, Kremlin's actions, and Moscow FSB Directorate's role. Discuss the impact on border cities and economic challenges. Learn about the potential impact of different types of leaders and an intriguing anecdote about religious imagery in eggs.
4 snips
Dec 29, 2023 • 55min
In Moscow's Shadows 128: Politics, War and Lunacy - a look forward to 2024
This podcast episode looks ahead to the upcoming year, covering topics such as the presidential elections in Russia, the ongoing war in the Black Sea, the shrinking middle class, and Russia's relationship with the Mongols.
4 snips
Dec 23, 2023 • 56min
In Moscow's Shadows 127: When Napoleon was Nuked and Other Russian Conspiracy Theories
Explore the prevalence and complexity of conspiracy theories in Russia, including weaponized conspiracy theories, managed falsehoods, and bizarre theories about historical events. Discuss the impact of the Soviet Afghan war and the involvement of the veterans movement. Uncover various conspiracy theories about Lenin, the CIA, and the dismantling of the Russian Federation. Examine the vulnerability of Russian culture to conspiracy theories due to lack of transparency, control of information, and belief in deeper spiritual meanings. Reflect on the prevalence of conspiracy theories arising from political and cultural trauma in Russia.
5 snips
Dec 17, 2023 • 46min
In Moscow's Shadows 126: Truth and Tedium in Putin's Marathon Town Hall and the Russian Press
A recent town hall meeting hosted by Putin was described as a four-hour, four-minute procession of banalities and boredom. The importance of instilling hope and portraying success to the Russian population was emphasized. The tenuous connection between an article connecting Ukrainian armed forces to the Third Reich was discussed. The concept of a coordinated western conspiracy and the renewed focus on the Nazi angle in Russian propaganda were explored. The factors contributing to the dramatic increase in the price of eggs in Russia were explored. The destabilization of the criminal balance of power in Putin's Russia was discussed.
