Newscast Old Newscast: Vladimir Putin elected Russian president for the first time, 2000 (Part 2)
Aug 9, 2025
Catherine Belton, an insightful author and Russia reporter for The Washington Post, and BBC's Russia editor Steve Rosenberg, explore the seismic shifts in Russia under Vladimir Putin. They discuss Putin's rise from KGB roots and how crises like the Kursk submarine disaster shaped his authoritarian grip. Their conversation covers Putin's perceptions of Ukraine as an integral part of Russia, the implications of recent coup attempts, and what a post-Putin Russia might look like amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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Stability Drove Early Popularity
- Stability after the 1990s and actions against oligarchs boosted Putin's popularity.
- Steve Rosenberg notes many Russians preferred control and order over chaotic liberal reform.
Early Western Engagement And Legitimacy
- Western leaders initially welcomed Putin as a partner and reformer, giving him legitimacy.
- Catherine Belton explains Tony Blair and others cheered reforms like a flat tax and market-friendly moves.
Perceived Western Rebuffs Fuel Resentment
- Putin later felt rebuffed by the West and grew resentful after perceived slights like ABM withdrawal.
- Steve Rosenberg and Catherine Belton say this fed long-term mistrust and strategic distancing.