Judging Freedom Prof. Gilbert Doctorow: LIVE from St. Petersburg, Russia!
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May 7, 2025 Gilbert Doctorow, a European political analyst specializing in US–Russian relations, shares his insights live from St. Petersburg. He discusses the effects of Western sanctions on everyday life in Russia, revealing how supermarkets adapted and Chinese electronics gained popularity. He highlights the complexities of American goods entering Russia and explores the sentiments of Russian citizens regarding the war, including their growing pacifism. Doctorow also addresses skepticism about peace deals and surprising economic resilience amid sanctions.
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Electronics Market Adapts to Sanctions
- Consumer electronics in Russia now come mostly from lesser-known Chinese brands not subject to US sanctions.
- Premium buyers acquire American/global electronics via parallel imports with extra commissions.
Unexpected Chevy Sightings in Russia
- Doctorow observed new Chevrolets on Russian roads despite official withdrawal.
- Likely imported via third countries or Middle East through parallel trading.
Diverse Views on Ukraine War
- Some Russians in creative and intellectual fields oppose the war but are not anti-Putin or anti-Russian.
- They privately wish the war to end soon, despite understanding its causes.