I strongly recommend it to anyone seeking to understand Russia's political landscape in the immediate lead-up to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and to assess whether such an outcome was unavoidable, and if so, what key moments signalled the point of no return.

Europe-Asia Studies

Russia's attack on Ukraine in 2022 raised interest in Putinism and Russia as a regional threat. Black places the invasion of Ukraine and the hardening and broadening of Western sanctions against Russia in a narrative that ties them to Vladimir Putin's intent to remain in power indefinitely, his attack on opposition leader Alexei Navalny, and even the COVID-19 pandemic…. the book is a readable reminder of Russia's military maneuvering on the eve of the war and the blow-by-blow process of Putin's repression of the media and of opposition to the war-including the Kafkaesque outlawing of references to the war as war. Black traces Putin's repression of the media through allegations that it is supposedly extremist, fake news fueled by foreign agents…. A distinctive feature of the book is Black's prolific use of Russian sources-not only public media and government documents but also blogs and other social media. He also includes polling data relevant to virtually every move Putin has made domestically and internationally. This is a useful introduction to recent events in Russia and Ukraine. Recommended. General readers and undergraduates.

Choice Reviews

An exceptionally well-informed, balanced and detailed analysis of a critical turning point in Russian politics and international relations between 2020 and 2022. This perceptive and convincing study challenges stereotypes and misconceptions, and helps explain the origins and dynamics of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict. It is an essential read that provides an understanding how the Global North once again stumbled into war.

Richard Sakwa, University of Kent

At a time when the Russia-Ukraine war dominates news headlines, understanding Russia has never been more important. In this thorough and comprehensive read, Black enables readers to do so through an outline of political and economic developments in Russia in the two years prior to the invasion of Ukraine, and in the immediate aftermath. Black casts an expert gaze on some of the most important events of our era.

Paul Robinson, University of Ottawa

A fascinating analysis of how Russian leaders and citizens understand their place in the world. It is critical reading for those who wish to understand the motivations that propelled Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.

Jeff Sahadeo, Carleton University