Exploring Putin's Historical and Cultural View on Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia

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Putin perceives Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia as culturally and linguistically intertwined, stemming from a historical lens that views their separation as artificial, rooted in geopolitical shifts and bureaucratic decisions rather than substantial differences. His argument hinges on a shared Christian orthodoxy, which serves as a foundation for his belief in the essential sameness of these peoples. The insistence on these historical connections underscores his framing of conflicts as civil discord rather than outright foreign aggression. Moreover, he downplays the significance of administrative divisions established post-Soviet Union, suggesting they are trivial constructs that should be reconsidered. Putin's discourse suggests a multifaceted approach to identity that encompasses cultural, historical, and religious dimensions while challenging the notion that religion should be the yardstick for political legitimacy. This perspective can raise questions about broader implications for regional relations, particularly concerning Western views and the complexities of ethnicity, imperialism, and national identity in the context of Russian state politics.

In this episode Samo Burja and Erik Torenberg discuss Tucker Carlson’s interview with Vladimir Putin, the history behind the Russia-Ukraine war and the media’s war propaganda machine. They also cover Poland's role within Europe, its political economy and emergence as a high-income nation, and nuclear weapons. Head to https://brave.com/brave-ads/ and mention “MoZ” when signing up for a 25% discount on your first campaign.

Live Players is part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: https://www.turpentine.co/

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist

Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/36Kqo3BMMUBGTDo1IEYihm

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/history-102-with-whatifalthists-rudyard-lynch-and/id1730633913

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@History102-qg5oj

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LINKS:

Samo’s Bismarck Brief: https://brief.bismarckanalysis.com/

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction to Live Players

(00:29) Putin's Perspective and Strategy

(06:37) Putin's Historical and Cultural Arguments

(16:23) Putin's Future Plans and Potential Outcomes

(23:33) Sponsor: Brave

(24:33) Poland's Political Economy Transformation

(30:39) Political Economy of Poland: Success or Failure?

(32:22) The Impact of Catholicism on Polish Nationalism

(34:08) Poland's Economic Growth and Immigration Policies

(35:20) The Decline of Catholicism and Cultural Convergence in Poland

(35:41) Poland's Political Economy and the Future of its Society

(37:53) Poland's Role within Europe and its Political Alliances

(42:01) Poland's Economic Inequality and its Impact on Society

(49:55) Poland's Energy Challenge and Potential Nuclear Weapons Development

(54:21) Poland's Future: Staying in NATO but Leaving the European Union

(55:39) The Propaganda Challenge Faced by Countries like Russia and Israel

This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.