Masha Gessen, a journalist based in Moscow, talked about the rise and continued influence of Vladimir Putin in Russia. She presented a portrait of a ruthless politician underestimated by friends and enemies alike, who dismantled his nation’s democratic and free market reforms in order to establish himself as totalitarian leader of the “new Russia.” She responded to questions submitted by members of the audience.
This presentation was part of the Spring 2012 Visiting Writers Series of the New York State Writers Institute.