A remarkable, bottom-up exploration of contemporary Russian politics that sheds fresh light on why Putin’s grasp on power is even more fragile then we think

What do ordinary Russians think about Putin? Who are his supporters? And just why might their support right now end up being faltering? Alive using the voices and experiences of ordinary Russians and elites as well, Sam Greene and Graeme Robertson art a compellingly unique account of contemporary Russian politics.

Telling the story of Putin’s rule through pivotal episodes like the aftermath of the ‘For Fair Elections’ protests, the annexation of Crimea, as well as the War in Eastern Ukraine, Greene and Robertson draw on interviews, surveys, social networking data, and leaked documents to show how hard Putin has to work to maintain broad popular support, while revealing the changing tactics which the Kremlin has utilized to bolster his popularity. Unearthing the ambitions, emotions, and divisions that gas Russian politics, this publication illuminates the crossroads to which Putin has led his nation and displays why his guideline is more delicate than it appears.