War and Punishment: The Story of Russian Oppression and Ukrainian Resistance

Myths have led us to the fascism of 2022, according to Russian dissident journalist Mikhail Zygar. He reveals how 350 years of propaganda, bad historical scholarship, folk tales, and fantasy spurred his nation into war with Ukraine. Zygar chronicles the power struggles from which today's politics grew and digs out the essential truths from behind layers of seductive legend.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

History is a tapestry woven with myths, as the renowned Russian dissident journalist Mikhail Zygar astutely observes. Regrettably, these myths have steered us toward the fascism of 2022. It is high time to shed light on these illusions and confront their consequences. Drawing from his daring career exploring the boundaries of the Russian empire, Zygar unveils the intricate web of propaganda, flawed historical scholarship, folk tales, and fantasy that propelled his nation into conflict with Ukraine. How did the fear of the Ottoman Empire, instilled in a German monk, give rise to the fictional concept of a united Russian world? How did corny spy novels featuring a Soviet James Bond inspire Vladimir Putin to join the KGB? How did Alexander Pushkin's admiration for a poem by Lord Byron culminate in him slandering the legendary Cossack chief? And how did Putin underestimate the rising TV comic named Volodymyr Zelensky, failing to recognize that his satire had transformed into a grave and serious threat, and that his country would no longer be regarded as a source of laughter?

A renowned expert on the Kremlin, with unparalleled access to hundreds of players in the ongoing conflict, Zygar meticulously chronicles the power struggles that gave rise to today's politics. He excavates the essential truths obscured by layers of seductive legend, providing a comprehensive account of Russo-Ukrainian relations. War and Punishment, a work of history, cannot undo the past or alter the present, but it possesses the power to shape the future. In fact, this is where the story begins.

The book delves into the strange and complex history of Russo-Ukrainian relations, shedding light on how the largest nation on Earth lost its senses. By examining the intricate tapestry of events, Zygar offers a fresh perspective on a conflict that has captivated the world. His analysis is grounded in extensive research, interviews with key figures, and a deep understanding of the political landscape.

Through his storytelling, Zygar challenges the prevailing narratives and exposes the underlying motives that drive the conflict. He reveals the power struggles within the Russian government, the influence of oligarchs, and the role of propaganda in shaping public opinion. He also explores the historical roots of the conflict, tracing the tensions between Russia and Ukraine back to the Soviet era and the aftermath of the Cold War.

War and Punishment is not just a historical account; it is a call to action. Zygar urges readers to confront the myths that have perpetuated the conflict and to seek a deeper understanding of the truth. He advocates for diplomacy, dialogue, and a peaceful resolution to the crisis, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and respect for human rights.

In conclusion, War and Punishment is a groundbreaking work of history that offers a fresh perspective on the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. Through his meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and insightful analysis, Mikhail Zygar challenges the myths that have perpetuated the conflict and reveals the essential truths behind the headlines. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of international relations and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Weight: 658g
Dimension: 165 x 243 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399609012