New Statesman: Putin’s New Cold War

The Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok sickened a Russian man, his daughter and a police officer in a small British town. Prime Minister Theresa May gave Russia a deadline for an explanation, and after no serious response, she expelled 23 undeclared Russian intelligence officers. Such incidents increase Russia’s isolation and increase wariness about Vladimir Putin’s expected victory in Russia’s March 18 presidential election. “There are no credible opposition figures because murders, imprisonments and denunciations have left few capable of taking on this role,” writes Lawrence Freedman for New Statesman. “The only thing that might worry Putin is that too few people will come out to vote and so detract from his victory.” Freedman suggests the world must prepare for a new Cold War, one that could quickly turn hot. Evidence builds of Russia’s efforts to disrupt elections and internet communications of other countries. The new Cold War differs from the old one: Russia’s economy is weak and corrupt with over-reliance on energy exports. Use of energy exports as a source of leverage has prompted customers to diversify suppliers. Russia’s sphere of influence is narrow with “crudely nationalist” messaging that does not inspire global audiences. Putin’s insecurity and extreme responses limit opportunities for Russian people. – YaleGlobal

New Statesman: Putin’s New Cold War

Assassination attempts, cyber-attacks, military interventions – Russia, a nation riddled with insecurities, is again playing a deadly game with the West
Lawrence Freedman
Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Read the article from New Statesman about the dangers of a new Cold War.

Lawrence Freedman is emeritus professor of war studies at King’s College London. His latest book is the The Future of War: A History (Allen Lane).

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