Democratic Breakdown and the Decline of the Russian Military

Russian generals have acquired an important political position since the Soviet Union's collapse, while the effectiveness of their forces has deteriorated. This book explains these puzzles as it paints a comprehensive portrait of Russian military politics. Three formative moments gave rise to the Russian dilemma: Gorbachev's decision to invite military participation in Soviet politics, Yeltsin's acquiescence to a new political system, and Putin's failure to press for needed military reforms.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

A comprehensive exploration into the enigmatic realm of Russian military politics, "Democratic Breakdown and the Decline of the Russian Military" delves into the perplexing dynamics that have shaped the country's military landscape since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Authored by Zoltan Barany, this insightful work offers a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the complex web of political influence and military power dynamics that have unfolded in Russia.

The book identifies three pivotal moments that played a significant role in shaping the Russian dilemma. The first pertains to Gorbachev's decision to involve the military in Soviet politics, a move that marked a departure from the previous era of strict military isolation. The second pivotal moment occurred when Yeltsin acquiesced to a new political system that granted generals a legitimate political presence, effectively granting them a seat at the table of decision-making.

However, the third and most consequential moment was when Putin assumed the presidency. While initially promising to initiate military reforms, Putin ultimately failed to press for the necessary changes, instead elevating numerous high-ranking officers to prominent positions in the federal administration. This move further consolidated the military's political influence and further eroded the separation of powers, undermining the democratic foundations of the country.

Throughout the book, Barany employs a systematic and analytical approach to examine the various aspects of Russian military politics. He provides a detailed analysis of crisis management following the sinking of the Kursk submarine, highlighting the shortcomings and failures of the military leadership. He also conducts a comprehensive comparison of the Soviet/Russian armed forces in 1985 and the present, drawing attention to the decline in military capabilities and the erosion of professionalism.

Furthermore, Barany delves into the army's political role, shedding light on the ways in which the military has become deeply entwined with the country's political establishment. He explores the intricate relationship between politicians and generals, highlighting the power struggles and conflicts that have arisen as a result of the military's increasing influence.

The book also offers compelling accounts of the elusive defense reform, highlighting the challenges and obstacles that have hindered the country's efforts to modernize its armed forces. Barany argues that the lack of meaningful defense reforms is not solely due to economic constraints but also reflects the deep-rooted political interests and resistance within the military establishment.

In conclusion, "Democratic Breakdown and the Decline of the Russian Military" is a seminal work that offers a profound understanding of the complex dynamics that have shaped Russian military politics. Through a comprehensive analysis of the historical, political, and military factors that have contributed to the country's military predicament, Barany provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that Russia faces in the years to come. This book is destined to become a classic in post-Soviet studies, reminding us of the importance of the separation of powers.

Dimension: 235 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691247731