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Roland Bathon

Roland Bathon

Roland Bathon is a freelance journalist. He writes mainly about Russia and Eastern Europe.

Articles

Democracy and society | 19.02.2024

Ritual > election

Putin’s only critical challenger is not allowed to run in the elections. Despite its power, the Kremlin is afraid of real alternatives

Foreign and security policy | 27.06.2023

Prigozhin: An outsider with an army

The Wagner uprising – despite its short duration – has demonstrated the vulnerability of Putin's power system

Democracy and society | 26.05.2023

Russia’s social media battleground

Since invading Ukraine, Russia has tightened restrictions around social media. But, not all is lost — there are regime-critical Russian actors at work

Democracy and society | 10.03.2023

A beacon of hope for Russia’s cultural scene

The future of Russia’s once world-class culture doesn’t look bright. Its greatest hope lies in its creative music scene

Democracy and society | 17.11.2022

Why Putin’s regime is far from over

Many in the West believe that the fall of the Putin system is imminent. But Russian experts are less optimistic

Foreign and security policy | 28.09.2022

Putin's cannon fodder

Russia’s mobilisation represents a major rupture for its own people and is extremely unpopular. The EU must open its doors to conscientious objectors

Democracy and society | 06.09.2022

Not all is lost in Russia

Those shaking their heads at the current passivity of Russians’ are advised to be patient and read their history books — a change is still possible

Foreign and security policy | 01.04.2022

How Russia has put itself at China’s mercy

China’s neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict does not come for free. How Russian experts view the relationship with the People’s Republic