Bitely

Putin's People

Catherine Belton

The Russian economy was heavily influenced by the KGB during the Soviet era. Although their influence declined in the 1990s with the rise of young oligarchs, Vladimir Putin's presidency provided an opportunity for prior KGB agents to regain their control over Russian business and politics. Throughout his time in power, Putin has steadily weakened democratic principles in Russia by consolidating control over the media and other industries while he has pursued a mission of expanding Russian influence and fostering divisions in Western countries.

biography memoir

russia

crime

history

28 min

12 Bite

Insight

What's it about?

Putin's People offers a startling portrayal of the corruption and political intrigues surrounding Russia's notorious president, Vladimir Putin, and his inner circle. Furthermore, the book highlights the multifaceted role of the KGB, which extends beyond its reputation as the secret police force of the Soviet Union and explores the story of how the KGB experienced a loss of power, subsequent resurgence, and continued exploitation of its influence within the Soviet government and economy.

Book summary

Catherine Elizabeth Belton is a journalist and author. She was the Moscow correspondent for the Financial Times from 2007 to 2013. Belton lives in London and reports on Russia for the Washington Post.

"Unless we ensure equal conditions for all, we won’t be able to pull the country out of its current state."

"We believed in Western values … But it turned out everything depended on money, and all these values were pure hypocrisy."

"The French Revolution, the Soviet one, all the others, appear first as a liberating struggle. But they soon morph into military dictatorship."

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All Bites

12 Bites

Vladimir Putin worked for the KGB before going into politics.

Young corporate entrepreneurs started to have greater power than the KGB in the 1990s.

Due to Vladimir Putin's influence, the KGB played a significant role in the economic affairs of St. Petersburg.

After his relocation to Moscow, Putin rapidly ascended the political ladder.

After gaining control of the media, Putin launched a campaign to take over the oil industry.

Putin's acquisition of Yukos marked the KGB's victory over the oligarchy.

Putin utilized acts of terrorism to enhance his reputation.

The Kremlin created a secret slush fund that enriches itself and finances its activities abroad.

Through a number of financial strategies, Russia started to penetrate London.

Russia used Ukraine as a means of engaging in a proxy conflict against Western nations.

Following the annexation of Crimea, Putin continued to channel money and spread culture into the West.

Russia secured an ally - the U.S. President Donald Trump.

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