Putin and a new pan-Slavism

Summary

In this interview, the speaker discusses Vladimir Putin's popularity and his role in restoring Russia's pride, economic stability, and global influence, drawing comparisons to historical figures like the Tsar. Despite criticism over human rights, Putin's nationalist policies resonate strongly with many Russians. The speaker also critiques U.S. foreign policy, particularly its impact on Russia, and how it may have fueled nationalist sentiments. Additionally, the speaker explores Russia's relationship with China, noting cooperation but underlying distrust. The lack of pro-democratic forces in Russia is highlighted, with the media's coverage of Putin being questioned for its bias.

Takeaways

• 😀 Putin is criticized for manipulating elections and his human rights record but remains very popular in Russia.
• 😀 Putin is seen by many in Russia as a savior figure, akin to a modern 'good czar' who rescued Russia from humiliation.
• 😀 While Putin is a right-wing nationalist who wants to restore Russia's strength, he does not pursue racist or international world power ambitions like Hitler did in the 1930s.
• 😀 Putin's domestic success, such as restoring national pride and raising income through high oil prices, has earned him significant support.
• 😀 Putin aims to make Russia a dominant world power, leveraging its vast natural resources, educated population, and courageous people.
• 😀 The US, under the Bush administration, inadvertently helped create conditions for Putin’s rise by making NATO's expansion a provocation and acting aggressively in the Middle East.
• 😀 The Bush administration's foreign policies, especially the Iraq war and NATO expansion, have fueled anti-Western sentiment in Russia.
• 😀 The US press tends to cover Putin favorably because he does not directly conflict with American policy, despite his authoritarian actions.
• 😀 The US media often overlooks Russia's human rights violations, including the genocide-like actions in Chechnya, which the US indirectly supported through military aid.
• 😀 Despite a shared interest in opposing US influence in certain regions, Russia and China have a history of distrust and remain cautious in their cooperation.
• 😀 Democratic forces in Russia exist but are marginalized, representing a small portion of the population and facing significant challenges against the dominant Putin regime.

Q & A

What is the general perception of Vladimir Putin in Russia?

Putin is generally seen as a popular and symbolic figure in Russia. He is viewed by many as a leader who restored national pride, revitalized the economy, and strengthened Russia's position on the world stage.

How is Putin compared to historical figures?

Putin is compared to the 'white Zar' or 'good Zar,' a figure from Russian history who rescues the nation in times of trouble and humiliation, much like how some viewed Tsar Nicholas II or figures like Hitler in the 1930s.

Does Putin have a vision to restore the Soviet Union?

Yes, Putin has a goal to restore Russia's influence over the former Soviet Union territories, albeit in a non-Communist, nationalist context. He aims to make Russia a dominant global power.

How has the West contributed to the rise of Putin's nationalism?

The West, particularly the U.S., has contributed by expanding NATO towards Russia's borders and acting aggressively in the Middle East. These actions have inflamed nationalist, anti-Western sentiments in Russia, feeding into Putin's rhetoric.

What role did the U.S. play in Russia's actions in Chechnya?

The U.S. was complicit in Russia's brutal actions in Chechnya after 9/11, providing support, including sophisticated electronic equipment, which helped Russia suppress the Chechen independence movement and conduct assassinations.

Why is there a relatively favorable media portrayal of Putin in the U.S.?

The media often portrays Putin favorably because he has not directly challenged U.S. interests, and many see him as a stable alternative to a potential chaotic Russia with multiple factions vying for power.

Has there been a growing split between Putin and President Bush?

Yes, as Russia's power grows, there has been a noticeable split between Putin and the Bush administration. Putin has criticized U.S. foreign policy and has distanced himself from U.S. influence in regions like the Middle East and the Balkans.

How are Russia and China cooperating, and are there any issues between them?

Russia and China cooperate in some areas, such as arms sales and opposing U.S. influence in Central Asia and the Middle East. However, there is significant historical distrust between the two, which prevents closer collaboration.

Are there democratic forces emerging in Russia?

There are pro-democratic forces in Russia, but they are a small minority, representing about 8% of the population. These forces have limited support and influence, as most Russians remain aligned with Putin's nationalist agenda.

What is Putin's stance on Western influence in Russia?

Putin has expressed a critical stance towards Western influence in Russia. He even criticized Tsar Peter the Great for opening Russia too much to the West, suggesting a return to a more isolationist, panslavist policy.