How Did We Get Putin So Wrong?

THE CZAR HAS NO CLOTHES

The world assumed the Russian leader was a cunning and formidable adversary. Then he launched a disastrous war that has devastated his own country.

Published Jul. 6 2023 8:01PM EDT

An illustration including a photo of Vladimir Putin and a Red rectangle. — Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / Getty

Russia has known no other leader in the 21st century than Vladimir Putin. Throughout his nearly quarter-century in power, few global leaders have been so closely scrutinized.

David Rothkopf

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How Did We Get Putin So Wrong?

The world assumed the Russian leader was a cunning and formidable adversary. Then he launched a disastrous war that has devastated his own country.

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David Rothkopf