Wegren, Stephen K

Summary
Now in a thoroughly revised, expanded, and updated edition, this classic text provides the most authoritative and current analysis available of the challenges confronting Putin as he resumes the presidency. Leading scholars assess Medvedev’s term in office and explore the daunting domestic and international problems facing Russia today. Evaluating the regime’s continued efforts to rebuild a country once on the verge of collapse, they consider a comprehensive array of economic, political, foreign policy, and social issues.
Putin had his own approach for dealing with myriad problems facing Russia, emphasizing recentralization of power and a strong state. His influence remained potent during the Medvedev presidency, but he returns to power amidst unresolved policy issues both domestic and international. Domestically, genuine civil society and grassroots democratic opposition may be emerging. Only by understanding these challenges—and previous efforts to deal with them—will it be possible to understand the trajectory for Russia. Clearly written and organized, this text is an indispensable guide for anyone wanting to understand Russia today.