This perceptive Advanced Introduction provides a contemporary analysis of Russia's political system, political institutions and its place on the global stage.

Richard Sakwa deftly explores Russia's emergence as an independent state, examining the structure of its existing political and economic system, its transformation following the constitutional reform of 2020, and the immediate and long-term consequences of the Russia-Ukraine war. The book offers a concise overview of Putin's leadership, assessing the domestic and international impact across his presidential terms. This informative and prescient Advanced Introduction ultimately goes on to question whether Russia can survive in its present state and considers a series of potential future outcomes.

Key Features:

• Assesses Putin's leadership and political repercussions
• Delivers comparative analysis of Russia's political institutions
• Analyses key facets of Russia's domestic and international politics
• Evaluates the short and long-term effects of the Russia-Ukraine war

This book will be a highly important read for scholars and academics specialising in international politics, international relations, comparative politics and geopolitics. Offering an incisive summary of Russia's national and international political position, this Advanced Introduction will also be of interest to career professionals working in international development and diplomacy.