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Boris Nemtsov: “Putin’s main problem is that he despises the Commandments”

Details: 04 March 2015; Elena Servettaz

The murder of Boris Nemtsov came as a shock to people around the world, but especially for those who knew him personally. Over the last few days, hundreds of journalists, writers, and politicians have published articles, op-eds, and social media posts about their personal encounters and conversations with Nemtsov. Elena Servettaz shares her memories of the leader of the Russian opposition.

Details: Opinions

“It is [the] bigotry of lower expectations [to say] that Russians will always favor a strong man over democracy.” — Mark Lagon

Details: 03 March 2015; Olga Khvostunova

Unsurprisingly, Freedom House’s recent 2015 Freedom in the World report has shown a decline in civil liberties in Russia. Mark Lagon, the new president of Freedom House, spoke with IMR’s editor-in-chief Olga Khvostunova about Russia’s current political trajectory, Putin’s stakes in the Ukraine conflict, and what the West can do to empower Russian civil society organizations.

Details: World

Putin’s Trojan Horse in Europe

Details: 27 February 2015; Donald N. Jensen

Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to Hungary and his new energy deal with Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban caused yet another debate in Europe over Russia’s attempts to undermine the Western alliance. Donald Jensen, resident fellow of the Center for Transatlantic Relations, reviews these controversial developments.

Details: Nation

Does Russia’s Protest Movement Have a Future?

Details: 24 February 2015; Denis Volkov

On March 1, an “anti-crisis march” organized by Russian opposition leaders is set to be held in Moscow. Its goal is to protest against the war in Ukraine and to show people’s frustration with the economic crisis. Organizers estimate that as many as 100,000 people will participate in the march. Levada Center sociologist Denis Volkov examines the character and potential of Russia’s protest movement.

Details: Opinions

Putin’s Hostage

Details: 19 February 2015; Alexander Podrabinek

On February 10, the Basmannyi Court of Moscow extended custody for the Ukrainian pilot Nadezhda Savchenko, who continues her hunger strike in protest of the absurd accusations against her. Writer Alexander Podrabinek argues that the Russian authorities have essentially sentenced her to death.

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