Richard Sakwa Libros

Russia is back as a major force in global politics, but what does this mean? In this erudite and balanced study, renowned Russia scholar Richard Sakwa explores the current debates on Russia, placing them into historical context and outlining the fundamental challenges currently facing the country--

The unfolding crisis in Ukraine has brought the world to the brink of a new Cold War. As Russia and Ukraine tussle for Crimea and the eastern regions, relations between Putin and the West have reached an all-time low. How did we get here? Richard Sakwa here unpicks the context of conflicted Ukrainian identity and of Russo-Ukrainian relations and traces the path to the recent disturbances through the events which have forced Ukraine, a country internally divided between East and West, to choose between closer union with Europe or its historic ties with Russia. In providing the first full account of the ongoing crisis, Sakwa analyses the origins and significance of the Euromaidan Protests, examines the controversial Russian military intervention and annexation of Crimea, reveals the extent of the catastrophe of the MH17 disaster and looks at possible ways forward following the October 2014 parliamentary elections. In doing so, he explains the origins, developments and global significance of the internal and external battle for Ukraine.With all eyes focused on the region, Sakwa unravels the myths and misunderstandings of the situation, providing an essential and highly readable account of the struggle for Europe's contested borderlands.

Set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions, this book delves into the fears and misconceptions surrounding Russian intentions during the late 20th century. It examines the political climate, media portrayal, and public sentiment that fueled paranoia and distrust. Through a blend of historical analysis and personal narratives, the author reveals how these fears shaped international relations and domestic policies. The exploration of espionage, propaganda, and the impact on everyday lives provides a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal era.

This updated political biography of Vladimir Putin offers an in-depth examination of his influence on Russian politics and society. It includes analyses of his second presidential term, changes in policy processes, state-society relations, economic performance, and Russia's international relations, concluding with contemporary debates on democracy and Putin's leadership.

Focusing on Vladimir Putin's political journey, this biography offers an in-depth analysis of his impact on Russia's political landscape, foreign relations, and societal changes. The author builds on prior works to deliver a comprehensive and nuanced portrayal of Putin, exploring his motivations, strategies, and the complexities of his leadership. This detailed account sheds light on the significant role he plays in shaping contemporary Russia.

After the Revolution in October 1917, Soviet Russia tried to establish an alternative form of social organization based on the ideology of communism and the practices of Soviet democracy. This system inspired millions and achieved the industrialization of Russia, but ultimately it failed. The dissolution of the communist order by 1991 was accompanied by the disintegration of the country. Communism in Russia: a- provides a fresh, clear and concise view of the history of communism and Russia in the twentieth century, and the interaction of the two; b- offers an original analysis combining the history of an ideology and the fate of a nation; c- traces the connections and tensions between communist ideology and Russian realities, and explains the reasons for the collapse of the system; and d- incorporates the latest research and scholarship on the subject. -- Back cover

The book offers a comprehensive historical overview of the Soviet Union, utilizing eyewitness accounts, official documents, and newly uncovered materials. It spans from the 1906 revolution to the regime's collapse, providing insights into the political, social, and cultural transformations that shaped the nation during this tumultuous period. Richard Sakwa's analysis sheds light on the complexities of Soviet history, making it a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of this influential era.

The view that Russia has taken a decisive shift towards authoritarianism may be premature, but there is no doubt that its democracy is in crisis. In this original and dynamic analysis of the fundamental processes shaping contemporary Russian politics, Richard Sakwa applies a new model based on the concept of Russia as a dual state. Russia's constitutional state is challenged by an administrative regime that subverts the rule of law and genuine electoral competitiveness. This has created a situation of permanent stalemate: the country is unable to move towards genuine pluralist democracy but, equally, its shift towards full-scale authoritarianism is inhibited. Sakwa argues that the dual state could be transcended either by strengthening the democratic state or by the consolidation of the arbitrary power of the administrative system. The future of the country remains open.

Since first publication in 1993, this book has become a standard text. Its detailed coverage of the major processes and issues in the development of post-communist Russian politics and society make it a comprehensive guide to a fast-changing scene.