Russia under Vladimir Putin

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the political landscape of Russia under Vladimir Putin.

Putinism

Political ideology associated with Vladimir Putin, characterized by authoritarianism, nationalism, and state control.

Siloviki

Members of the military-security establishment in Russia, often closely allied with Putin.

Kremlin

The fortified complex in Moscow that serves as the official residence of the President of Russia.

De facto leader

A person who holds power in a country without the official title or legitimacy of their position; in Russia, this term often refers to Vladimir Putin.

Unity Party

A political party formed in Russia in late 1999, which became a major platform for Vladimir Putin.

United Russia

The political party that supports Vladimir Putin and was formed in 2001, becoming the dominant party in Russian politics.

Censorship

The suppression of speech or writing that is deemed objectionable or threatening to the state; a significant issue under Putin's regime.

Economic reforms

Changes in economic policy aimed at improving efficiency, growth, and stability in Russia, significant during Putin's first term.

Corruption

The abuse of power for personal gain, which has been a widespread issue in Russia under Putin's government.

Annexation of Crimea

The 2014 illegal seizure of Crimea by Russia, which led to international sanctions and a significant downturn in relations with the West.

Political repression

The act of suppressing or punishing dissent and opposition, a notable characteristic of Putin's rule.

Foreign Agent Law

A law that requires non-governmental organizations receiving foreign funding to register as foreign agents, heavily criticized for stifling dissent.

Totalitarianism

A political system where the state recognizes no limits to its authority and seeks to regulate every aspect of public and private life.

Hybrid warfare

A strategy that blends conventional warfare with cyber warfare and disinformation, notably utilized by Russia in conflicts.

Civic society

A society where citizens are involved in the political process through associations and interactions, which has been undermined in Russia.

Eurasianism

A political and economic doctrine proposing that Russia and several neighboring countries form a new political entity, emphasized under Putin's foreign policy.

Nostalgia for the Soviet Union

The phenomenon of longing for the Soviet past, often used in propaganda by Putin to promote nationalism in Russia.

Political freedoms

Basic rights that allow citizens to participate freely in political life; increasingly restricted in Putin's Russia.

Democracy

A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives; its quality has been debated in the context of Russia under Putin.

Public opinion

The distribution of beliefs about politics and policy issues; pivotal in gauging the support for Putin's government.

Nationalism

A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of the nation, which has been a central theme in Russia's evolving identity under Putin.

Cultural propaganda

The use of media and public education to promote a particular cultural narrative supporting the government's agenda.

West vs. East

A recurring theme in geopolitical discussions relating to Russia's policies under Putin that analyze Russia's relationship with Western nations.