Sergei Medvedev is a correspondent for RFE/RL's Russian Service.
Vienna-based culturologist Alexander Etkind is known for his works on the perception of Russia’s history. In an interview with RFE/RL, he talks about how Russia’s Silver Age, fetishism, and waning power over oil exports have shaped its current state and ultimately led to the war in Ukraine.
Western sanctions will batter Russia’s economy this year. Does that mean the government of President Vladimir Putin is threatened? A prominent Russian economist and banker says no.
In 1970, the Soviet Union and its satellites pulled out all the stops to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Vladimir Lenin, the founder of the country and self-styled savior of the working class worldwide. Just 50 years later, however, the Kremlin finds Lenin's legacy problematic and seems satisfied to let the April 22 anniversary pass unnoticed.
Despite more than two decades of relentless pressure, independent journalism continues to exist in Vladimir Putin's Russia, emerging constantly in previously unknown niches. Amid the struggle to survive, a whole new generation of young journalists seems determined to make a difference.
