My Russia: War or Peace?

My Russia: War or Peace? by Mikhail Shishkin offers a profound and eloquent exploration of Russia's tumultuous history and its current political landscape. Shishkin delves deeply into the intricate layers of Russia's past, starting from the ancient 'Kievan Rus' period, navigating through the era of the Grand Duchy of Moscow, the expansive days of the Russian Empire, the seismic shifts of the revolution, and the intense Cold War years, culminating in the establishment of the Russian Federation thirty years ago. This journey through time reveals the events and ideologies that have shaped modern Russia.

Shishkin provides a nuanced examination of the relationship between the state and its citizens, highlighting the long-standing tension and the prevailing attitudes towards rights and democracy. He brings forth the dichotomy within the Russian populace: on one hand, there are those who suffer from a 'slave mentality', disillusioned and disaffected by a history of repression; on the other hand, there are those who aspire to 'European' values, striving to oppose oppression and advocate for change.

In his timely new book, Shishkin contends that Russia is not the famously opaque 'riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma', but rather a nation whose true nature is obscured by a lack of understanding and knowledge. He probes into the roots of Vladimir Putin's autocratic regime and the motivations behind the invasion of Ukraine, offering insights that are both deeply personal and grounded in a broad historical perspective.

Shishkin's narrative is not just an exploration of political and historical events but also a passionate, eye-opening account of a state ensnared in a complex and often bloody past. His prose serves as a love letter to a conflicted country, reflecting on its struggles and the potential for a different future. He poses the critical question: will Russia continue its vicious cycle of upheaval and autocracy, or will its people find a way to break free from the chains of history? Moreover, Shishkin ponders on how the international community can assist in this transformative journey.

My Russia: War or Peace? is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of Russian society, the roots of its current political climate, and the possibilities for its future. Shishkin's profound insights and compelling narrative make this book a vital addition to contemporary political literature.