S8 Ep918: Michael McFaul explores the evolution of Putinism, characterizing Vladimir Putin as an ideological risk-taker who views the West as a threat to "Russian civilization." He critiques the West for lacking a "Plan B" during Putin's early aggressions in Georgi

Michael McFaul explores the evolution of Putinism, characterizing Vladimir Putin as an ideological risk-taker who views the West as a threat to "Russian civilization." He critiques the West for lacking a "Plan B" during Putin's early aggressions in Georgia and Crimea, suggesting that faster NATO expansion might have deterred the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. McFaul highlights how autocratic models of development are gaining popularity globally, challenging the efficiency of democratic systems. He emphasizes that Putin's actions are motivated by anti-Western ideas rather than simple national interest, making him an unpredictable and dangerous global actor. (5/8)1900 BRUSSELS