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Vladimir Putin, Russia’s long-standing leader, is often seen as a figure of power, control, and mystery. However, his early years reveal a more nuanced picture of the man behind the political persona. Putin’s childhood, marked by hardship and resilience, has had a profound influence on his life and leadership, casting a shadow that continues to shape his decisions and worldview.
Born in 1952 in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), Putin grew up in a post-war Soviet Union, a time of scarcity and rebuilding. His family lived in a communal apartment, sharing limited space with other families—a common arrangement in the USSR. This environment fostered a sense of survival and adaptability in young Putin, traits that would later define his political career.
Putin’s parents, particularly his father, a factory worker and WWII veteran, instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and patriotism. His father’s experiences during the war, including severe injuries sustained in combat, left a lasting impression on Putin, who grew up with a deep respect for the sacrifices made by previous generations. This upbringing likely contributed to his staunch nationalism and his emphasis on restoring Russia’s global influence.
Despite the challenges of his early life, Putin was a determined and ambitious child. He developed an early interest in martial arts, particularly judo, which taught him the importance of strategy, patience, and control—qualities that would later become hallmarks of his political style. His passion for sports also provided an escape from the harsh realities of his surroundings and helped him build confidence and resilience.
Putin’s childhood was not without its darker moments. He has spoken about facing bullies in his neighborhood, which forced him to stand up for himself and develop a tough exterior. This early exposure to conflict may have shaped his uncompromising approach to power and his belief in the necessity of strength in leadership.
The economic and social struggles of his youth also left Putin with a deep skepticism of Western ideals and a preference for centralized authority. Growing up in a system where the state played a dominant role in everyday life, he became accustomed to a top-down approach to governance. This perspective has influenced his policies as Russia’s leader, from his consolidation of power to his resistance to Western-style democracy.
In many ways, Putin’s childhood serves as a lens through which to understand his actions and decisions as a leader. The hardships he endured, the values he absorbed, and the lessons he learned during his formative years have all contributed to the complex and often controversial figure he is today. While his leadership has been marked by both achievements and criticisms, it is clear that the shadows of his past continue to shape his present.
Scandals
Vladimir Putin, Russia’s long-serving leader, has been at the center of numerous controversies and scandals throughout his political career. These scandals span a wide range of issues, from allegations of political repression and authoritarianism to accusations of corruption and human rights violations. One of the most persistent criticisms of Putin is his suppression of political opposition. High-profile critics like Alexei Navalny have been imprisoned, and there have been numerous allegations of state-sponsored violence against dissidents, including the poisoning of Navalny and the deaths of other political rivals, such as Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian spy who died in London from polonium-210 poisoning. These incidents have fueled accusations that Putin’s government uses extreme measures to silence opposition.
Another major area of controversy is Putin’s alleged involvement in election interference, particularly in foreign countries. Russia has been accused of meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election through hacking and disinformation campaigns aimed at influencing the outcome. Similar allegations have emerged in other countries, leading to widespread condemnation and sanctions against Russia. Domestically, Putin has been criticized for consolidating power, including changes to Russia’s constitution that allow him to extend his rule. Critics argue that these actions undermine democratic principles and concentrate power in the hands of a single leader.
Corruption allegations have also dogged Putin throughout his career. Investigative reports, such as those by Alexei Navalny, have accused him of amassing vast personal wealth through corrupt practices, including owning lavish properties and benefiting from the wealth of oligarchs. While Putin has denied these claims, they have contributed to his controversial reputation on the global stage. The 2016 Panama Papers leak further fueled these allegations, revealing offshore financial dealings linked to Putin’s inner circle, though Putin himself was not directly named in the documents.
Putin’s foreign policy decisions have also sparked international scandals. The 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine led to widespread condemnation and sanctions against Russia, with many viewing the move as a violation of international law. Similarly, Russia’s military interventions in conflicts such as the war in Syria and the ongoing war in Ukraine, which began in 2022, have drawn criticism for alleged human rights abuses and violations of international norms. These actions have further isolated Russia from much of the international community.
Domestically, Putin’s government has been accused of cracking down on media freedom and free speech. Independent journalists have been imprisoned, and opposition media outlets have been shut down, leading to concerns about the erosion of press freedom in Russia. Additionally, Russia’s state-sponsored doping program in sports, which came to light in the mid-2010s, resulted in the country being banned from international sporting events, including the Olympics. This scandal tarnished Russia’s reputation in the global sports community.
Human rights violations under Putin’s leadership have also been a source of controversy. His government has been criticized for its treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals, political dissidents, and minority groups, as well as its harsh crackdowns on protests. Environmental scandals, such as the mishandling of oil spills and nuclear waste, have further damaged the government’s reputation, with critics accusing it of lacking transparency and accountability.
While many of these allegations remain unproven, they have contributed to Putin’s controversial image both domestically and internationally. His supporters often dismiss these claims as Western propaganda or attempts to undermine Russia’s sovereignty. Nonetheless, the sheer volume and severity of the scandals associated with Putin’s leadership have left a lasting impact on his legacy and Russia’s place in the world.
Leadership
Vladimir Putin has emerged as one of the most influential and enigmatic leaders in modern history. His rise to power, governance style, and impact on global politics have been shaped by his background, strategic thinking, and relentless pursuit of control. His leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to maintaining authority, an ability to adapt to changing circumstances, and a strategic approach to both domestic and international affairs. Understanding his leadership requires an exploration of his early influences, his approach to governance, his foreign policy strategies, and the psychological traits that define his decision-making.
Putin’s formative years were marked by a strong influence from the security apparatus of his country. His early career in intelligence services played a crucial role in shaping his worldview. The experience taught him the importance of secrecy, manipulation, and the careful consolidation of power. His understanding of loyalty and betrayal, cultivated during these years, would later become evident in his leadership style, where he surrounded himself with a close circle of trusted allies while eliminating perceived threats. This early exposure to state security mechanisms instilled in him a preference for control and order over democratic processes.
One of the defining aspects of Putin’s leadership is his ability to centralize power. He has systematically dismantled opposition, controlled media narratives, and ensured that political structures remain under his influence. His approach to governance relies on a mix of nationalism, economic control, and political repression. By appealing to national pride and portraying himself as the defender of Russian sovereignty, he has maintained widespread support among the population. At the same time, he has used state-controlled resources to reward loyalists while punishing dissenters. This method of governance has enabled him to remain in power for decades, reshaping the political landscape of Russia.
Economically, his administration has fostered a system where key industries are controlled by allies with ties to the state. This economic model allows him to wield financial influence both domestically and internationally. Wealth is concentrated among a select group of elites who owe their fortunes to their allegiance to the state. This structure not only consolidates internal power but also provides leverage in international dealings. By controlling critical economic assets such as energy exports, he has been able to exert pressure on other nations, using economic dependency as a tool for political influence.
On the global stage, his leadership has been marked by a strategic approach to international relations. His foreign policy is defined by a combination of pragmatism, calculated aggression, and long-term planning. His administration has been actively involved in shaping geopolitical events, often challenging Western influence. By engaging in military interventions, forming strategic alliances, and utilizing cyber tactics, he has been able to extend his reach beyond national borders. His ability to exploit weaknesses in Western democracies, coupled with his understanding of global power dynamics, has allowed him to position himself as a formidable player in world affairs.
His approach to governance also reflects his adaptability. He has demonstrated an ability to shift policies and strategies in response to changing circumstances. Whether through military action, diplomatic negotiations, or economic adjustments, he ensures that his position remains secure. His leadership style is not rigid but rather fluid, allowing him to navigate challenges with calculated precision. This flexibility has been crucial in maintaining his grip on power while countering internal and external threats.
Despite his stronghold over political structures, his rule has not been without challenges. Economic instability, international sanctions, and growing dissent within Russia pose significant threats to his continued dominance. His ability to suppress opposition through legal and extralegal means has been effective, but public dissatisfaction remains a looming issue. As his administration continues to enforce strict control over media and political discourse, the question remains whether such measures can indefinitely contain societal unrest.
Psychologically, his leadership reflects traits of resilience, strategic calculation, and emotional detachment. His ability to maintain composure under pressure, coupled with a highly analytical mind, allows him to make decisions with long-term implications. His calculated demeanor suggests that he does not act impulsively but rather assesses risks meticulously before making a move. This psychological profile aligns with his strategic use of power, where every action is carefully measured to ensure maximum advantage.
The international community continues to grapple with the challenges posed by his leadership. His ability to disrupt Western institutions, challenge global norms, and assert Russia’s influence on the world stage makes him a key figure in contemporary geopolitics. His leadership is not just about maintaining power within Russia but also about reshaping the global order to suit his strategic interests. His policies, both domestic and foreign, indicate a leader who is focused on securing his legacy while countering perceived threats to his authority.
Looking ahead, his future actions will likely follow the same patterns that have defined his rule. He will continue to prioritize control, adaptability, and strategic maneuvering to maintain his position. His governance will remain characterized by a blend of repression, economic influence, and geopolitical assertiveness. As international tensions persist, his leadership will play a crucial role in shaping global events, with far-reaching consequences for both allies and adversaries.
Understanding his leadership requires recognizing the intricate balance he maintains between power, strategy, and public perception. His ability to navigate complex political landscapes, both domestically and internationally, is a testament to his tactical expertise. While his methods may be controversial, there is no denying that his leadership has left an indelible mark on Russia and the world. His rule serves as a case study in the exercise of power, demonstrating how strategic calculation, control mechanisms, and adaptability can sustain authority in an ever-changing global environment.
Putin’s People
In the Book Putin’s People: The KGB’s Takeover of Russia. Putin’s People: How the KGB Took Back Russia and Then Took on the West by Catherine Belton is an in-depth investigation into Vladimir Putin’s ascent and the consolidation of power by his KGB associates, and how their kleptocracy actively works to undermine Western democracies. The book uncovers the intricate methods used to subvert Western systems.
Part One of the book sets the stage by exploring the historical context and the conditions that facilitated the rise of Putin and his KGB cohort. It references events such as ‘Operation Luch’ and the transition period after the Soviet Union’s implosion. Belton examines how the KGB security men, who had always been present in the background during Yeltsin’s era, rose to monopolize power. A key development during this period was the creation of an “invisible economy” for the Communist Party. This covert financial network was designed to safeguard the Party’s financial interests as the Soviet Union dissolved. The book suggests that this early groundwork was essential for the later consolidation of power under Putin.
Part Two details the methods used to consolidate power and exploit Russia’s energy sector for political gain. It describes how Putin’s “inner circle” and “Operation Energy” contributed to an “imperial awakening”. This section likely uncovers the strategies employed to centralize control over key industries, particularly in the oil and gas sectors, and how these resources were leveraged to exert influence both domestically and internationally. The narrative suggests that the control of energy resources became a central tool in Putin’s efforts to reassert Russia’s global standing.
Part Three delves into the specific instruments and strategies utilized to achieve the aims of Putin’s regime. These include the use of “Obschak” (common fund), which refers to a system of shared wealth and loyalty among the ruling elite. The book likely explores how this system functions to maintain cohesion and enforce compliance within Putin’s inner circle. Additionally, the establishment of “Londongrad” as a financial hub is examined, highlighting the role of London in facilitating the flow of Russian capital and providing a safe haven for wealthy Russians. The use of “Black Cash” and other illicit financial practices is also discussed, shedding light on the methods employed to finance covert operations and exert influence. This part also covers the employment of “Soft Power in an Iron Fist,” indicating the dual approach of using both cultural influence and coercive tactics to achieve geopolitical objectives. Finally, it examines the network’s connections to Donald Trump, potentially revealing financial ties, shared interests, and the extent of Russian influence in American politics.
The New Tsar
In the book The New Tsar: Rise of Vladimir Putin, By Steven Lee, he provides an in-depth exploration of Vladimir Putin’s life and ascent to power. It chronicles his early life in Leningrad, his time in the KGB, and his transition into politics following the collapse of the Soviet Union. The text examines his role in St. Petersburg’s government under Anatoly Sobchak and his subsequent rise within Boris Yeltsin’s administration. It covers major events and policy decisions during Putin’s presidency, such as the Chechen conflict, the Kursk submarine disaster, and the annexation of Crimea. The author analyzes Putin’s relationships with key figures, his consolidation of power, and his impact on Russia’s domestic and foreign policies. The book also examines the controversies and scandals surrounding his administration.
The New Tsar: The Rise and Reign of Vladimir Putin by Steven Lee Myers explores the ascent of Vladimir Putin and his impact on Russia. The book begins with Putin’s father’s experience during the siege of Leningrad, which had a profound impact on him.
Putin’s early life included an interest in the night sky while living with his family in a communal apartment. In 1972, his mother won a car in a lottery and gave it to Putin, which became a status symbol for him.
Putin’s time in East Germany as a KGB officer significantly shaped his views. He considered East Germany a harshly totalitarian country but seemed to like it very much. Upon returning to Russia after the Gorbachev era, Putin and his wife were disappointed by the terrible lines, ration cards, and empty shelves.
During his time working for Mayor Sobchak, Putin gained a reputation for competence and loyalty. He avoided public attention and worked long hours. In this role, he transitioned from collecting information to making decisions. After an accident involving his wife, Lyudmila, Putin’s aide Igor Sechin assisted, highlighting the state of basic services at the time.
After his political rise, Putin faced public scandals, including allegations of corruption and conspiracy within the FSB. As Prime Minister, Putin’s manifesto, “Russia at the Turn of the Millennium,” acknowledged the country’s diminished status and called for national unity and a strong central government.
In 2000, as a candidate for president, Putin published a letter outlining his vision for Russia, emphasizing the need to combat crime and reinforce state control over the market. He also addressed the war in Chechnya, framing it as a fight against the criminal world rather than an independence movement.
The book also recounts events such as the Kursk submarine disaster and the Chechen rebel hostage taking of the theater in Moscow, which hardened Putin’s views on existential threats to Russia. The siege in Beslan further solidified his stance, leading to a refusal to negotiate with Chechen leaders and increased suspicion of Western intentions.
Later, Putin expressed his belief that a parliamentary system was unsuitable for Russia, emphasizing the need for a presidential republic.
The book also describes the 2004 Ukrainian elections and the poisoning of Viktor Yushchenko, which fueled Putin’s fears of Western influence and a plot to encircle Russia.
In 2004, Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s trial resulted in a guilty verdict and imprisonment, seen by some as a consequence of challenging Putin’s power.
The poisoning of Aleksandr Litvinenko in London in 2006, who accused Putin of being behind it, further strained relations between Russia and the West.
Putin’s leadership in Chechnya involved supporting leaders such as Ramzan Kadyrov, despite concerns over their methods. Putin’s 2007 speech in Munich criticized the West’s dominance and actions.
As president, Dmitri Medvedev’s time in office was marked by events such as the war in Georgia, during which Putin’s influence remained prominent.
During Medvedev’s presidency, the town of Pikalevo faced economic struggles due to the shutdown of its power plant. Putin intervened, publicly addressing the situation and ensuring the payment of workers’ salaries.
The book covers the protests following the 2011 elections, which exposed the depth of opposition to Putin’s rule. Despite criticisms and protests, Putin’s popularity remained high, especially after the annexation of Crimea. The book suggests that Putin has created a new Russia that embodies characteristics of both the Soviet Union and the Tsarist empire, solidifying his role as an indispensable leader.
A Psychological Portrait of Vladimir Putin
In the book Vladimir Putin: A Psychological Portrait Through Physiognomy by, Anna Thompson, outlines the principles of physiognomy, which claims to determine a person’s character and psychological traits based on their facial features. The author analyzes Vladimir Putin’s face, examining aspects like his eyes, nose, mouth, and forehead. Each chapter focuses on a specific facial feature or area, providing insights into Putin’s potential strengths, weaknesses, and behavioral tendencies. The guide suggests that Putin is pragmatic, analytical, strategic, discreet, and adaptable.
The book asserts that physiognomy can reveal inherent qualities with accuracy, suggesting that facial features are natural markers that cannot be easily concealed. It emphasizes that while facial features provide insights, they do not determine good or bad qualities, but rather reflect traits that can be advantageous depending on the situation. The guide also highlights that the same facial feature can hold different meanings depending on the context of other facial markers present.
The book is structured to explore various parts of the face and their significance in physiognomic analysis: the face is divided into left and right sides, each representing different aspects of life. The left side reflects emotions, personal life, and creativity, while the right side indicates work, self-realization, professional success, and societal recognition. The book also divides the face into three zones: the upper zone signifies intellectual abilities, the middle zone relates to emotions and communication, and the lower zone indicates volitional qualities and activity.
The author analyzes Vladimir Putin’s facial features using the principles of physiognomy. The analysis includes observations about the balance between the left and right sides of Putin’s face, the positioning and shape of his jaw, mouth, lips, chin, and nose, and other markers. These observations lead to conclusions about Putin’s personality traits, such as his stress resistance, attention to detail, strategic thinking, and emotional tendencies.
The book delves into specific facial features, such as Putin’s slightly retracted jaw, which suggests a disciplined nature and adaptability in behavior. His wide jaw indicates stress resistance, while his rounded chin suggests caution and detailed planning. The analysis of Putin’s mouth and lips suggests multitasking aptitude, analytical thinking, and a rational approach. The book further explores Putin’s moderate sociability, patience, and ability to analyze details based on the shape of his chin.
Furthermore, “A Psychological Portrait of Vladimir Putin” examines other features, including Putin’s nose, subnasal groove, nose bridge, eyes, forehead, eyebrows, ears, cheeks, wrinkles, and head shape, and relates these features to traits such as intuition, risk-taking, decision-making, realism, and adaptability. For example, Putin’s high nose suggests good intuition and sensitivity to change, while his moderately high philtrum indicates a combination of adventurism and intuition. His small, deep-set eyes suggest realism, pragmatism, and a lack of sociability. The book concludes that Putin’s facial features reveal a complex personality characterized by a blend of intellect, emotional reserve, strategic thinking, and a drive for control.
Putin vs Putin
Alexander Dugin’s book “Putin vs Putin” explores Vladimir Putin’s political trajectory through the lens of Eurasianism. The book analyzes Putin’s actions, decisions, and ideology, examining the influences and challenges he faces. Dugin presents Putin as a figure caught between Western pressures and Russia’s unique civilizational identity. The author critiques Putin’s perceived failures, such as a lack of a unifying national idea, while advocating for a stronger embrace of Eurasianism. Dugin examines the struggle between liberalism and traditional values, suggesting the need for a “Fourth Political Theory” to counter globalist influences. The work is a detailed analysis of Putin’s role in shaping Russia’s destiny, offering insights into Eurasianist thought and its vision for the country’s future. Dugin argues that Russia must assert its sovereignty and resist Western dominance to fulfill its global mission.
The book explores Putin’s role in Russia’s rebirth, his ideology, and his geopolitical strategies. Dugin examines Putin’s mission to create a stable political regime that aligns with Russian national interests and geopolitical priorities. He also delves into the intellectual influences and debates surrounding Putin’s policies, including the concept of Eurasianism as an opposition to liberal-democratic Westernism and narrow nationalism.
Dugin critiques liberalism as an ideology of globalization that undermines moral and spiritual values. He contrasts “freedom from” with “freedom for,” arguing that liberalism prioritizes the former, leading to nihilism. Dugin also examines liberalism’s stance on issues such as sexual minorities and transgenderism, viewing them as central to liberal policy.
The texts also cover the Munich speech delivered by Putin in 2007, in which he clearly defined Russia’s geopolitical sovereignty. Dugin considers the speech a foundation for geopolitics, marking Russia’s stance as a world geopolitical force. The book further analyzes the concept of a “chaord,” a synthesis of chaos and order, in the context of contemporary empires, particularly the United States.
Eurasianism is presented as an ideology with its own formula for the economic strata of Russian society, appealing to the working class, encouraging middle-class initiatives, and inspiring geopolitical responsibility in magnates. Dugin highlights Eurasianism as a positive alternative that defends traditional values, the rights of peoples, and a socially-oriented economic system.
The author touches on the “Fourth Political Theory,” which seeks to move beyond liberalism, communism, and fascism. This theory emphasizes the importance of cultural variety, dialogue between civilizations, and a rejection of postmodernity and globalism. Dugin sees Russia as destined to stand at the focal point of this conceptual process, given its location at the intersection of Eastern and Western cultural tendencies.
Putin vs. Putin reflects on Russia’s policies and problems during the past 13 years, expressing concern for the fate of Russia and its people. Dugin portrays Putin as a figure who can embody the hopes of patriots and Eurasianists. The book examines the war of the West on Russia in ideological terms, viewing liberalism as a nihilistic force, which is in crisis. Dugin suggests that the meaning of the war on Russia is the last effort of globalist liberalism to save itself from implosion.
Likelihood of Putin’s Next Geopolitical Moves
Given Putin’s historical strategies and the current global climate, it is likely that his next geopolitical moves will be calculated yet assertive. He will continue to expand Russia’s sphere of influence through a combination of military operations, economic leverage, and cyber warfare. His past actions suggest he will seek to maintain control over regions critical to Russia’s security, particularly in Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The following scenarios highlight potential future strategies:
Escalation in Ukraine and Moldova – Given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Putin may seek to further destabilize the region, either through continued military engagement or through political manipulation. Moldova, a strategically positioned country with a Russian-backed separatist region (Transnistria), could also be targeted for increased influence.
Influence Over Central Asia – Russia has historically held strong influence over former Soviet republics in Central Asia. Putin may reinforce his dominance in these areas through military alliances, economic investment, and strategic energy dependencies.
Pressure on the Baltic States – While direct military confrontation with NATO is unlikely, Russia may engage in hybrid warfare tactics such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and political destabilization efforts in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Expansion in the Arctic – Russia has significant strategic interests in the Arctic, where it seeks to dominate shipping routes and access vast natural resources. This could lead to increased militarization and territorial claims in the region.
Strengthening Alliances with China and Iran – As Western sanctions continue, Putin will likely deepen ties with China and Iran to counterbalance Western influence. These alliances will serve to secure economic benefits, military cooperation, and alternative markets for Russian energy exports.
Cyber and Disinformation Campaigns Against the West – Given past successes in influencing elections and political discourse in Western nations, Russia is likely to continue its cyber operations, spreading disinformation to weaken democratic institutions and create divisions among adversaries.
Potential Conflict with NATO Proxies – While direct war with NATO remains unlikely due to the risk of escalation, Putin may engage in conflicts through proxy forces, supporting insurgencies and leveraging mercenary groups to challenge Western interests.
Looking ahead, his future actions will likely follow the same patterns that have defined his rule. He will continue to prioritize control, adaptability, and strategic maneuvering to maintain his position. His governance will remain characterized by a blend of repression, economic influence, and geopolitical assertiveness. As international tensions persist, his leadership will play a crucial role in shaping global events, with far-reaching consequences for both allies and adversaries.
In February 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin initiated discussions aimed at negotiating a ceasefire in Ukraine. On February 12, President Trump announced a “highly productive phone call” with President Putin, during which they agreed to commence immediate negotiations to end the conflict. Subsequently, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov led delegations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to develop a framework for further talks.
The proposed agreement has raised concerns among Ukraine and its European allies, primarily due to their exclusion from the initial negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine would not accept any agreements made without its direct involvement. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that “Europe must have a central role” in the negotiations, warning that any agreement excluding Ukraine or the EU would likely fail.
Specific details of the ceasefire agreement have not been publicly disclosed. However, statements from U.S. officials suggest potential concessions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the restoration of Ukraine’s pre-2014 borders as “unrealistic,” implying that Ukraine might need to cede some territory as part of the peace process. Additionally, he ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine within the agreement framework.
These developments have led to a sense of betrayal among Ukrainian soldiers and citizens, who feel that the proposed deal favors Russian interests and undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty. The exclusion of Ukraine from initial talks and the potential requirement to forgo NATO aspirations have intensified these sentiments.
In summary, while President Trump and President Putin have agreed to initiate negotiations for a ceasefire in Ukraine, the exclusion of Ukraine and European allies from early discussions, along with potential concessions regarding Ukrainian territory and NATO membership, have sparked significant concern and criticism.
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Books:
- Putin’s People: How the KGB Took Back Russia and Then Took, Catherine Belton, 2020, HarperCollins Publishers; Farrar, Straus and Giroux
- The New Tsar, Steven Lee Myers, Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
- A Psychological Portrait of Vladimir Putin: A Physiognomic, Thompson, Anna G, 2022, OVK Publishing house
- Putin vs Putin: Vladimir Putin Viewed from the Right, Alexander Dugin, 2014, Arktos Media
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