The world’s strongmen are reverting to their standard playbook to project an aura of control. It’s a risky strategy for a chaotic crisis.
Tag: Putin, Vladimir V
Russian Doctor Detained After Challenging Virus Figures
The police held overnight an outspoken Russian doctor, Anastasia Vasilieva, who was trying to deliver masks to an impoverished rural town.
Turning the Tables, Russia Sends Virus Aid to U.S.
A planeload of coronavirus aid to New York was a propaganda coup for the Kremlin — tempered by an intensifying epidemic at home.
Coronavirus in Russia: Putin Fades From View as Country Braces for Pandemic
The Russian leader hates to deliver bad news and wants to distinguish his rule from the turbulent presidency of Boris N. Yeltsin. So he is leaving it to his minions to announce harsh measures.
Pandemic Mars Putin’s Coronation and Endangers Russia’s Veterans
President Vladimir Putin’s grand plans to celebrate the 75th anniversary of victory in World War II, and his own leadership, may be foiled by the coronavirus, which also threatens war heroes.
After Exposing Corruption in Russian Courts, He’s Now in Jail Himself
Pretending to be a senior official, Sergei Davydov induced judges to fix cases, then revealed the conversations. Then the system struck back.
On Russia-China Border, Selective Memory of Massacre Works for Both Sides
The countries agree a mass killing occurred on the Amur River in 1900. They would just prefer not to discuss it right now.
Not Just a Crisis: Coronavirus Is a Test for Putin’s Security State
The outbreak offers an opportunity to examine the capabilities of Russia’s expanding surveillance apparatus, and gives Vladimir Putin a chance to prove his indispensability.
Russia’s Highest Court Opens Way for Putin to Rule Until 2036
The ruling, slammed by Kremlin critics as a sham, approves constitutional changes to free the Russian president from term limits.
With Cease-Fire in Place, Syrians Return for Belongings, but Not to Stay
A few of the hundreds of thousands displaced by the fighting are trickling back. But few, if any, say they believe the quiet will last.