Liberal Orthodoxy freed of Patriarchy’s control could appeal to many free-spirited believers, and can become a powerful tool in the hands of the new generation of equality-seekers in Russia.
The trial of Pussy Riot and its larger issues are an indication of extreme repression. Yet, the tentacles of that repression extend across the globe – reaching far beyond Putin’s Russia.
The conviction of three members of Pussy Riot is only the most visible manifestation of new developments in Russia. Putin wants to use the scrim of Russia’s legal system to show how completely he has eclipsed it.
Uzbekistan’s decision to suspend its CSTO membership reflects the changing geostrategic landscape of Central Asia. It should also lead the region to reflect on its current collective security arrangements.
Russia is intent on proving itself relevant on the global stage. In an age when attention is shifting to the East and the South, Russia is positioning itself as a central, non-Western, power.
The political positioning of Russia as a European country has never been seriously challenged in Russian political discourse, which asserts Russia as a European country in terms of its history, culture and identity. Yet, relations with European countries are marked by a series of crises.
The Church leadership is proving to be a dividing force in Russia that antagonizes a relatively small but active and politically significant minority.
Barring some extraordinary developments between now and 4 March, Putin will win the upcoming presidential elections in Russia. So if winning is not the real challenge facing Putin, what is?
How Putin and Medvedev react to the resurrection of civil society and the white revolution will determine the future pattern of political order in Russia
Putin will remain in power until 2024, barring assassination or revolution, and will become Russia’s longest ruling leader since Stalin. He is not known for his willingness to compromise or surrender Russia’s imperial gains, suggesting that a new time of troubles is looming on the horizon. This will indicate whether the West still sees Russia as a political part of Europe or has concluded that the country cannot be changed and the days of democratization have become a historical footnote.
