"What is for certain, however, is that Russia has been resurrected and is today actively and successfully re-establishing its Tsarist and Soviet-era influence and power across the international scene."

Readers enter the esoteric world of Russian society, beliefs, and national and international politics in this relevant and insightful book. In an in-depth overview of the Russian people's perceptions of Gorbachev and Yeltsin, the author explores the incidences and legislation that have led to Vladimir Putin's current rise to power in modern-day Russia. The book also transports readers through Russia's relationships with Cuba and Serbia, and it carefully examines the fall of the Soviet Union and the consequences of that fall. The author also explains why many modern-day Russians perceive Vladimir Putin as a capable leader. Lastly, the narrative places Russia on the international stage, a place where few readers may think Russia has a great sphere of influence. The book documents Russia's role on this stage in correlation to countries like America and Britain.

For readers interested in Russian and Soviet history, this book is an engaging read. The book contextualizes Russia's often fraught relationship with the rest of Europe, including former Soviet states like Ukraine. Thus, it serves as a strong informant regarding the current war between Russia and Ukraine. It helps readers understand the cultural, historical, and even linguistic similarities that place Russia at the forefront of Eastern European and European politics and relations. Those with a specific interest in NATO will find the discussions interesting and pertinent. The book also provides an in-depth look at Russia's relationship with Serbia, which enlightens Western readers to the magnitude of Russia's influence and power. For seasoned readers of geopolitical prose and for those beginning to take an interest in current events, especially those current events surrounding Russia, this book is mutual ground and a sure conversation starter.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review

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