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The “Bolotnaya Case”: The Third Wave

Details: 10 June 2014; Alexander Podrabinek

The detention of civil society activists still continues two years after the May 6, 2012, demonstrations in Bolotnaya Square. Another series of arrests started in late May and have been labeled the “third Bolotnaya case.” According to writer and journalist Alexander Podrabinek, as long as Russia’s system of power remains unchanged, political repressions will continue to occur.

Details: World

Russia’s Chinese Turn

Details: 09 June 2014; Tatiana Stanovaya

In late May, Russian president Vladimir Putin was in China on an official visit, the main result of which was the signing of a thirty-year contract to supply China with natural gas from Russia. Against the backdrop of Russia’s increasing isolation, this “Chinese turn” might look like a logical step; however, political analyst Tatyana Stanovaya argues that Moscow’s actions reinforce Russia’s status as a raw materials appendage and undermine its role in global politics.

Details: Nation

VSKhSON: the “Russian Path” to Freedom

Details: 05 June 2014; Alexander Yanov

The Institute of Modern Russia continues its series of articles by well-known historian Alexander Yanov on the history of Russian nationalism in the Soviet Union. In this essay, the author analyzes the ideology of VSKhSON—the All-Russian Social-Christian Union for the Liberation of the People.

Details: Politics

Ukraine: At a Crossroads Once More

Details: 03 June 2014; Tatiana Stanovaya

On May 25 Ukraine held presidential elections to stabilize the country and resolve a serious political crisis. Political analyst Tatyana Stanovaya summarizes the outcome of these elections and analyzes the political challenges that face the president-elect.

Details: Politics

The Kremlin’s Bargaining Chip

Details: 03 June 2014; Tatiana Stanovaya

The crisis in eastern Ukraine is still developing. The results of the referenda that took place on May 11 show that the majority of residents of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions support secession from Ukraine. According to political analyst Tatiana Stanovaya, unlike the Crimean referendum, the voting in Donetsk and Luhansk is a risky game, the outcome of which is still hard to predict.

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