Downfall: Prigozhin, Putin, and the new fight for the future of Russia

Yevgeny Prigozhin, a convicted gangster with no government office, rose to prominence as one of Russia's most dangerous warlords and a rival to Vladimir Putin. His role in the war with Ukraine and the chaos unleashed across Russia by his turn against Putin is explored in this book, which also examines the political climate that propelled him to power. The aftermath of his death and its impact on Russia's future are also discussed.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2024
Publisher: Ebury Publishing

Yevgeny Prigozhin, a prominent figure in Russia's tumultuous political climate, emerged as one of Vladimir Putin's chief rivals and was exiled after leading Wagner's attempted coup and killed in a mysterious plane crash. However, the truth about his role in the war with Ukraine and the chaos unleashed across Russia by his turn against Putin remains shrouded in mystery. This book delves into the enigmatic figure of Prigozhin, his role in the war with Ukraine, and the aftermath of his death, exploring the political climate that propelled a convicted gangster with no government office to the formidable role he came to occupy. Drawing on years of research, Downfall offers an essential story of Russia's recent history and a compelling insight into its likely future.

Prigozhin's rise to prominence began in the early 2000s, when he founded the Wagner Group, a private military company that quickly gained notoriety for its involvement in conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and other parts of the world. The group's reputation was built on its brutality and efficiency, and Prigozhin became known as a ruthless leader who was willing to take on any job, no matter how dangerous or controversial.

One of Prigozhin's most significant roles in the war with Ukraine was his involvement in the attempted coup that took place in 2014. The coup was led by a group of Russian military officers who sought to overthrow the Ukrainian government and install a pro-Russian regime. Prigozhin provided financial support and training to the coup plotters and played a key role in organizing the attack on the Ukrainian parliament.

Despite the coup's failure, Prigozhin remained a powerful figure in Russia's political landscape. He continued to support the Russian government's efforts in Ukraine and was involved in a number of other conflicts, including the annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in Syria. Prigozhin's influence grew even more in 2016, when he was appointed as the head of the National Guard, a paramilitary force that was tasked with protecting the Russian government and its interests.

However, Prigozhin's relationship with Putin began to sour in 2017. The two men had been allies for many years, but Prigozhin's growing influence and his criticism of the Russian government's policies began to worry Putin. Prigozhin's criticism of the war in Ukraine, in particular, was seen as a threat to Putin's hold on power, and the two men began to engage in a bitter power struggle.

In the aftermath of the coup, Prigozhin was exiled from Russia and was killed in a mysterious plane crash. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and there have been numerous conspiracy theories surrounding his death. Some believe that he was assassinated by the Russian government, while others believe that he was killed by his own men.

Despite his death, Prigozhin's influence on Russia's political landscape remains significant. His Wagner Group continues to operate in Ukraine and Syria, and his supporters continue to advocate for his policies. Prigozhin's death has also led to a power struggle within the Russian government, with some factions seeking to consolidate their power and others seeking to distance themselves from Prigozhin's legacy.

In the aftermath of Prigozhin's death, Russia faces a number of challenges. The war with Ukraine continues to be a major source of instability, and the Russian government's efforts to control the region have been met with resistance from Ukrainian forces and Western countries. The Russian economy is also in crisis, and the country's political system is increasingly authoritarian.

To address these challenges, Russia will need to take a number of steps. First, the Russian government will need to negotiate a peace deal with Ukraine that will end the war and provide for the return of Ukrainian territory. Second, the Russian government will need to address the economic crisis by implementing reforms that will promote growth and stability. Third, the Russian government will need to address the authoritarian nature of its political system by promoting greater democracy and human rights.

Despite these challenges, Russia's future is still uncertain. Prigozhin's legacy will continue to shape the country's political landscape, and his supporters will continue to advocate for his policies. However, the Russian government's ability to implement these policies will depend on a number of factors, including the strength of its military, the support of its people, and the international community's response.

In conclusion, Yevgeny Prigozhin emerged as one of the most dangerous warlords in the world and as one of Vladimir Putin's chief rivals in Russia's tumultuous political climate. His role in the war with Ukraine and the chaos unleashed across Russia by his turn against Putin remains shrouded in mystery. This book delves into the enigmatic figure of Prigozhin, his role in the war with Ukraine, and the aftermath of his death, exploring the political climate that propelled a convicted gangster with no government office to the formidable role he came to occupy. Drawing on years of research, Downfall offers an essential story of Russia's recent history and a compelling insight into its likely future.

Weight: 382g
Dimension: 223 x 142 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529927351