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
4 snips
Dec 10, 2023 • 50min
In Moscow's Shadows 125: Putin's Coming Back! And So's the Cold War?
The podcast discusses Putin's surprise announcement to stand for re-election and analyzes the motives behind it. It explores the potential threat Russia poses to NATO and debates the timeline for Russia's rearmament. The chapter also highlights the challenges of military training and mobilization and emphasizes the need to understand Russia's intentions and address threats in a realistic and timely manner.
7 snips
Dec 3, 2023 • 54min
In Moscow's Shadows 124: Putin's Performative Politics
This podcast explores Putin's defensive politics, fragility of authoritarian regimes and lack of ideology. It also delves into Russia's shifting stance on homosexuality, political strategy of portraying Russia as a normal country, use of fear and reassurance in political communication, and performative politics.
Nov 19, 2023 • 55min
In Moscow's Shadows 123: Russia's 'Red-Brown' Leftists, and How I Became A Voice of the West
Left Front figure Leonid Razvozzhaev supports including ultra-nationalist Igor 'Strelkov' Girkin in presidential opposition. How does the Russian left differ from the West's and what are the implications of 'red-brown' alliances? The episode also delves into misinterpretations of the author's writings and the strategic manipulation of information by the Russian press. Possible outcomes of a revolution in Russia and speculation on a deal with Putin are discussed.
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.
