Putin Era: Russia at the Turn of the Century

Author: (Russian) Roy Medvedev
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-08-01
Features: The new work of Roy Medvedev, a renowned contemporary Russian historian, biographer, and political commentator, "The Putin Era—Russia at the Turn of the Century," is a powerful and insightful book that provides valuable insights into the evaluation of Putin's administration by Russian scholars and the study of Russia. The book meticulously examines the political process in Russia from August 2000, when Putin became Prime Minister of the Federal Government, to April 2001. When discussing Putin and related historical events, the author is guided by political theory and supported by concrete facts, analyzing them in the context of Russia's specific cultural background and reality. Overall, the author offers a positive and affirmative assessment of Putin's administration. Regarding Yeltsin's resignation and the selection of a successor, the author believes that any political leader, especially reformers and revolutionaries, will consider the issue of succession. Yeltsin's resignation was predicated on Putin's outstanding performance as Prime Minister, which included Putin's decisive crackdown on terrorists and the victory of pro-government factions in the Duma elections at the end of 1999. These achievements were the result of Putin's policies and state activities, his willingness to take full responsibility and make independent decisions. They were not, as some claim, the product of new political maneuvering. The support of the people and the logic of history were the main factors in Putin's victory in the presidential election on March 26, 2000. The author argues that for those who support Putin and for Putin himself, Chechnya is a lever that can be used to begin turning the situation across Russia around. Putin bravely took direct and primary responsibility for the use of force and was skilled in effectively addressing all political, economic, financial, and personnel issues that arose on the Chechen front, not just purely military problems. After assuming office, Putin took measures to restore both horizontal and vertical state management systems, which was an inevitable requirement for governing Russia's chaotic management system. Putin's economic policy aimed to establish a "controllable market economy" and economic reforms based on the premise of "maintaining social stability." Putin succeeded in consolidating public trust in the government agencies, which was his most important achievement. Promoting the development of the real economy, improving real economic efficiency, avoiding radicalism and dogmatism in economics, and fostering a healthy economic mindset were among Putin's successes. The author believes that Putin's appearance on the political stage and his ascent to the presidency were not accidental but rather a natural and inevitable phenomenon. Putin demonstrated many potential personal abilities, previously unshown talents, and the qualities of a great leader. Putin established a new image of a politician—one who talks about national choice rather than personal preference. Putin brought a new style to the Kremlin—natural, enterprising, serious, light-hearted humor, sound judgment, and decisive determination. The author considers Putin to be a leader capable of understanding Russia's situation and resources and who is sincerely committed to serving the people and the motherland. He is a leader skilled in winning national trust. Putin's appearance at the right time and in the right place is a testament to Russia's success.