The Russian government has initiated a campaign to nationalize the assets of Konstantin Strukov, a billionaire and owner of Russia’s largest gold mining company, marking an escalation in the Kremlin’s efforts to seize wealth from its elite. Strukov, despite his history of loyalty and political ties, had his private jet grounded and passport seized, with the FSB involved in preventing his departure from the country. This action is part of a broader pattern of reclaiming private wealth to support the war economy, particularly in sectors like gold and oil, amidst shrinking revenues and growing budget deficits. This case, along with others, indicates a shift in the Putin-era social contract, where loyalty no longer guarantees protection from asset seizure as the Kremlin seeks new funding sources.
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As New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary reached its final day, support for democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani was gaining momentum, causing alarm among wealthy backers of former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Polls indicated a close race between Mamdani and Cuomo, with the possibility of Mamdani’s victory concerning Wall Street figures and other wealthy donors. Some billionaires have even threatened to leave the city or close businesses if Mamdani is elected, while others have expressed their fear of his potential success. Mamdani’s platform focuses on progressive policies such as free public services, drawing support from prominent progressives and setting up a potential battle between organized money and organized people.
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Bannon’s assertion that wealthy oligarchs will abandon the Republican party is a provocative statement, especially considering his own controversial past and involvement in the rise of the populist right. It sparks a range of reactions, from agreement to utter disdain, highlighting the complex and deeply fractured nature of the current political landscape.
The idea that these powerful figures would desert the party they’ve long supported is intriguing. It suggests a potential shift in the dynamics of power within the Republican party, and potentially, within American politics as a whole. Perhaps the current trajectory of the party is simply no longer serving the interests of these oligarchs, leading them to seek other avenues for influence.… Continue reading
The Trump administration’s decision to disband the task force targeting Russian oligarchs is a deeply troubling development, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It raises serious questions about the administration’s commitment to holding Russia accountable for its aggressive actions. The timing, coinciding with a period of heightened geopolitical tension, suggests a deliberate effort to weaken efforts aimed at countering Russian influence.
This move directly contradicts the stated goals of confronting Russian aggression and undermining Putin’s power base. Disbanding the task force, rather than bolstering its efforts, sends a clear signal that the administration is either unwilling or unable to effectively address the threat posed by Russian oligarchs.… Continue reading
Historian Timothy Snyder expresses concern over Elon Musk’s significant influence on President-elect Trump, highlighting Musk’s substantial wealth and financial backing of Trump’s campaign. Snyder predicts a potentially damaging power dynamic, with Musk effectively controlling Trump’s actions through financial leverage. This dependence, Snyder argues, is reminiscent of Russia in the 1990s, featuring a weaker leader reliant on powerful oligarchs. This situation, according to Snyder, should worry Trump’s allies.
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Russia Plans Major Tax Hikes
As I sit here contemplating the recent news of Russia planning major tax hikes, my mind is filled with a myriad of thoughts and emotions. The concept of higher taxes is not new, but in the context of Russia’s current political and economic climate, it takes on a whole new level of significance. Putin’s “special operation” to fund military endeavors is causing quite a stir, with the potential for tax increases looming over the heads of the Russian populace.
The proposed tax hike targets those earning 200,000 roubles a month, which equates to approximately 2,000 euros.… Continue reading
The recent news of the Vice President of the Russian energy company Lukoil dying ‘suddenly’ of suicide raises many questions and suspicions. In a country where life expectancy seems to be directly linked to how well one can stay in Putin’s good books, it is no surprise that high-ranking executives are meeting mysterious deaths. Vitaly Robertus becomes the fourth Lukoil manager to die under questionable circumstances since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.
Former top executives of Lukoil, Alexander Subbotin, Ravil Maganov, and Vladimir Nekrasov all met their untimely ends in ways that seem to suggest foul play.… Continue reading
Russia warns the West: we will be very tough if you ‘steal’ our assets. These words from the Russian Foreign Ministry certainly caught my attention. It’s quite ironic to hear a country accuse others of theft when they themselves have a well-documented history of taking what doesn’t belong to them. Russia’s actions in Ukraine, where they invaded and annexed Crimea, are a prime example of this. So, what exactly are they going to do if their assets are seized? Invade another country? It’s almost comical.
Let’s not forget that many Russian oligarchs built their vast wealth by stealing from the Russian people.… Continue reading
The recent revelation that the GOP’s star witness in the Hunter Biden probe has ties to a Russian oligarch should come as no surprise to anyone paying attention. It seems like every time you turn around, another Republican is being linked to Russia in some way or another. From Tara Reade, who accused Joe Biden of sexual assault and then fled to Russia, to the countless GOP politicians receiving money from Russian oligarchs, it’s clear that the Republican Party is deeply entangled with Russia.
But why does this matter? Why should we care about the GOP’s ties to Russia? Well, for starters, it raises serious questions about the integrity and independence of the party.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood