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From Russia With Cash: The Inside Story of the Oligarchs

Seth Hayes

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Published in Londongrad: From Russia With Cash The Inside Story Of The Oligarchs

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In the wake of the Soviet Union's collapse, a new class of billionaires emerged in Russia, known as the oligarchs. These enigmatic figures made their fortunes in the chaotic years of privatization and economic liberalization that followed the fall of communism.

Londongrad: From Russia with Cash; The Inside Story of the Oligarchs

by Mark Hollingsworth

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	47266 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	419 pages

In From Russia With Cash, Paul Klebnikov tells the inside story of these oligarchs, their lavish lifestyles, their political connections, and their role in shaping modern Russia. Based on extensive interviews with the oligarchs themselves, their associates, and Western diplomats, this book provides a unique glimpse into the world of these secretive and powerful men.

The Rise of the Oligarchs

The oligarchs first emerged in the early 1990s, as the Russian government began to privatize state-owned industries. These men, many of whom had close ties to the Kremlin, were able to acquire vast fortunes by buying up these assets at bargain-basement prices.

As the oligarchs' wealth grew, so did their political influence. They began to donate heavily to political parties and candidates, and they used their media outlets to promote their own interests. In some cases, they even exerted direct control over the government.

The Oligarchs and Putin

The rise of the oligarchs was closely intertwined with the rise of Vladimir Putin. Putin, who became president in 2000, initially sought to rein in the oligarchs' power. However, he later came to rely on their support, and he allowed them to maintain their influence over the Russian economy.

In recent years, Putin has cracked down on some of the oligarchs, but he has also allowed others to continue to operate freely. This has led to a complex and often contradictory relationship between the Kremlin and the oligarchs.

The Oligarchs and the West

The oligarchs have been a source of fascination for Western governments and media. They have been accused of corruption, money laundering, and human rights abuses. In some cases, they have been sanctioned by Western governments.

Despite the controversy surrounding them, the oligarchs remain a powerful force in Russia. They control vast amounts of wealth and influence, and they play a key role in the country's political and economic development.

From Russia With Cash is a gripping account of the rise and fall of Russia's oligarchs. This book tells the inside story of their lavish lifestyles, their political connections, and their role in shaping modern Russia. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex and often contradictory world of these enigmatic billionaires.

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Londongrad: From Russia with Cash; The Inside Story of the Oligarchs

by Mark Hollingsworth

4 out of 5