Understanding Russia's Grand Strategy and Future

The podcast discusses Russia's strategy in a Western-dominated world, focusing on Putin's power, the war in Ukraine, and potential future scenarios for Russia. It examines the stability of Putin's regime, the implications of the war in Ukraine, and the role of US policy. The discussion highlights the challenges of authoritarian regimes and the importance of strategic international relations.

What is the main focus of Russia's grand strategy as discussed in the introduction?

• To be itself in a Western-dominated world

• To dominate the Western world

• To isolate itself from global affairs

• To form alliances with non-Western countries

What is a key characteristic of Putin's regime according to Steven Kotkin?

• It is hollow but strong

• It is weak and unstable

• It is strong and resilient

• It is democratic and open

Why has Putin been successful in maintaining his power?

• By suppressing political alternatives

• By promoting democratic values

• Through international alliances

• Due to strong economic policies

What transformation occurs when a war of maneuver does not result in a quick victory?

• It becomes a war of attrition

• It ends in a stalemate

• It escalates into a global conflict

• It leads to immediate peace talks

What is a significant economic impact of the war in Ukraine on Russia?

• Decreased military spending

• Increased self-enrichment among the elite

• Reduction in oil and gas exports

• Improved international trade relations

What was one of the four colossal victories achieved by the Biden administration in Ukraine?

• Annexing Russian territories

• Revitalizing NATO and Western alliances

• Establishing a new government in Russia

• Defeating Russia militarily

What was a potential missed opportunity for Ukraine in Fall 2022?

• Receiving more military aid from the US

• A complete military victory over Russia

• Joining NATO immediately

• An armistice without conceding sovereignty

Which future scenario for Russia is considered least plausible by Steven Kotkin?

• Russia as a strong pole in a multi-polar world

• Russia maintaining its current state

• Russia becoming increasingly dependent on China

• Russia as a democratic state like France

What is a key reason why Russia's grand strategy is considered a dead end?

• Strong international alliances

• Successful economic policies

• Failure to develop human capital and infrastructure

• Lack of natural resources

What is a major challenge for the US in dealing with illiberal regimes like Russia?

• Cultural differences

• Strong economic ties

• Inability to transform them into democracies

• Lack of military power