🚨New research paper. How law in Russia has evolved into a tool of authoritarian governance?. Russian law enforcement has become a tool of statecraft—not just crime-fighting. From branding NGOs as “foreign agents” and “undesirable” to silencing independent media, religion, and

The Use of Nuclear Weapons in Ukraine: Russian Public Opinion Shifts. Russians are now significantly less likely to believe that the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine could be justified. Currently, only 24% of respondents say it could be justified — a notable decline from 39% one

Moscow pauses negotiating, pushing harsher rhetoric—Putin anchoring all of Ukraine as “ours.” Meanwhile, Ukraine’s frontline is stabilizing. Read the analysis of the situation on the frontlines:

🗳 Levada Center Survey: Russians on the Iran-Israel Conflict. A new poll conducted in June 2025 shows how Russians view the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel:.🔹 61% of respondents said they support neither side. 🔸 29% expressed sympathy for Iran. 🔷 Only 3% sided with

Russians are increasingly viewing Donald Trump in a positive light — a sharp shift from the end of his first term, when over a third saw him negatively. Source: FOM poll

RT @RussiaPost_tw: The “Dark Enlightenment” is gaining traction—anti-democracy, pro-tech monarchy. Its ideas echo in Russia’s authoritaria….

Life satisfaction in Russia hits a new record:.🔹 89% of Russians say they’re satisfied with their lives.🔻 Only 10% are dissatisfied.Satisfaction has steadily grown — from 59% in Feb 2000 to 89% in April 2024. Source: Levada-Center

📢 Calling displaced scholars!.Join STEP U.S. practical workshop on applying for academic grants 🎓💡. 🗓️ Learn how to find the right opportunities.🛠️ Get tips to craft competitive proposals.📚 Perfect for early- & mid-career scholars. 🔗 Register now:

📊 Do Russians support unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine?. According to a May 2025 Levada poll:.🔴 73% of Russians believe the conflict in Ukraine should end only after addressing its root causes.🔵 18% support a ceasefire first, then resolving other issues.🕊️ 87% support peace

Over 25 Years, Russians’ Perception of Their Country’s Global Standing Has Dramatically Shifted. 🔹 In 2000, more than half of Russians believed their country ranked in the "lower half" of global development. — 18% considered Russia one of the world’s most underdeveloped

Russia under Putin isn’t just a case study—it’s a blueprint. As Marlene Laruelle explains, illiberalism often co-opts liberal institutions—courts, elections, media—to legitimize authoritarian consolidation. Read her analysis here:

🎧 Listen to a fascinating episode of a podcast from New Books Network featuring Marlene Laruelle’s new book, Ideology and Meaning-Making under the Putin Regime. Dr. Laruelle argues that Putinism isn’t just propaganda or power politics — it’s a coherent, evolving ideology rooted

Russia’s latest wave of repression isn’t about tackling real threats — it’s about instilling fear. The punishment of even minor dissent sets a chilling precedent. “Even the slightest expression of doubt is treated as subversive.”. Read the analysis:

Some Westerners are moving to Russia—not despite its politics, but because of them. Drawn by traditional values and disillusioned with liberal Western norms, they’re finding common ground with Putin’s Russia. Who are they? Discover in our new piece:

Is a new Russian invasion brewing?. Massive troop buildup near Ukraine’s northeastern border could signal the start of a large-scale offensive. What’s Putin’s next move?. Read the analysis:

Russia's economy is at a crossroads. High interest rates and war-driven spending have cooled consumer demand and squeezed nonmilitary industries. Pressure mounts on Putin to choose: ease off the war or embrace full economic mobilization. Read the analysis

Will Foreign Businesses Return to Russia?. Despite sanctions, Western firms see opportunity in Russia again. Strategic sectors, shifting politics, and a Kremlin eager for investment. Read the analysis:

Marlene Laruelle joined the podcast "Ideology and Meaning-Making under Putin" to unpack how the Kremlin builds its worldview through nationalism and traditional values. A must-listen for anyone exploring Russia’s ideological landscape. 🎧

Can peace be real when it's dictated by the stronger side?. Armenia-Azerbaijan negotiations risk becoming a facade without true compromise or justice. Read the analysis:

Russia and Iran propped up Assad together — but behind the scenes, it was a contest for influence. From rival militias to reconstruction deals, Tehran steadily edged out Moscow. Our report unpacks a decade of uneasy alliance. Read it here: