The Kremlin's Noose: Vladimir Putin’s Bitter Feud with the Oligarch Who Made Him Ruler of Russia

Amy Knight's book, "The Kremlin's Noose," tells the story of Vladimir Putin and Boris Berezovsky's relationship, which played a crucial role in Putin's rise to the Russian presidency. Berezovsky, a successful businessman and media mogul, was forced into exile in Britain after becoming Putin's enemy. He was found dead in 2013, with the cause of death remaining a mystery.

Format: Hardback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2024
Publisher: Icon Books

In her captivating book, "The Kremlin's Noose," Amy Knight delves into the intricate relationship between Vladimir Putin and the oligarch Boris Berezovsky, offering a profound exploration of post-communist Russia. Through the lens of their story, Knight sheds light on the complex dynamics that shaped the political landscape during the Yeltsin era and ultimately contributed to Putin's rise to power.

The book begins by tracing the origins of the relationship between Putin and Berezovsky, highlighting their shared experiences during the tumultuous years of the Soviet Union's collapse. Berezovsky, a successful businessman and media mogul, played a significant role in Russia's transition from communism to capitalism after 1991. He was known for his close ties to the Kremlin and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape with finesse.

However, their relationship took a tumultuous turn when Putin began dismantling the democratic reforms initiated by Boris Yeltsin. Berezovsky, who had invested heavily in Russia's emerging economy, found himself at odds with the new Russian leader's policies. He publicly criticized Putin's actions, leading to a bitter feud that played out against the backdrop of billion-dollar financial deals, Kremlin in-fighting, and international politics.

Dubbed the "Godfather of the Kremlin" by the late Russian-American journalist Paul Klebnikov, Berezovsky wielded considerable influence in Russia after 1991. Despite his own wealth, power, and influence, he was forced into exile in Britain in 2000 after becoming Putin's enemy. There, he waged a determined campaign to topple Putin, using his media outlets and political connections to expose the Kremlin's corruption and abuses of power.

Kremlin authorities responded to Berezovsky's challenges with a series of bogus criminal charges and demands for his extradition. The oligarch faced death threats, and his life became increasingly precarious. In March 2013, after losing a legal battle with another Russian oligarch, Berezovsky was found dead at his ex-wife's mansion outside London. The circumstances surrounding his death remain a mystery, with theories ranging from suicide to murder.

"The Kremlin's Noose" is a crucial contribution to our understanding of the Kremlin's volatile politics under Yeltsin and Putin. Knight's meticulous research and compelling storytelling shed light on the complex web of relationships, alliances, and conflicts that shaped Russia's political landscape during this critical period. The book provides a valuable insight into the power struggles, corruption, and human cost of Russia's transition to a capitalist economy.

Through the lens of Putin and Berezovsky's relationship, Knight highlights the importance of individual agency and the role that individuals can play in shaping the course of history. Berezovsky, despite his wealth and influence, was unable to prevent Putin's rise to power. However, his determination to expose the Kremlin's corruption and abuses of power left a lasting legacy, inspiring others to stand up against political oppression and fight for a more democratic and transparent Russia.

In conclusion, "The Kremlin's Noose" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of post-communist Russia and the rise of Vladimir Putin. Amy Knight's book offers a nuanced and insightful exploration of the relationship between politics, power, and individual agency, providing a valuable contribution to our understanding of this critical period in Russian history.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 242 x 162 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781837732203