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About Nicolai N Petro

Nicolai N. Petro is professor of politics at the University of Rhode Island (USA). He served as the U.S. State Department's special assistant for policy on the Soviet Union under George H.W. Bush.

Articles by Nicolai N Petro

Thursday 29th December

Russia’s Smouldering 'White Revolution'

The Putin regime has little to fear from the latest public protests which, despite drawing large crowds, are apolitical. True politics will only become possible in Russia when both the opposition and the regime focus on the tedious work of practical politics, says Nicolai N. Petro in his highly personal view of recent events.
Tuesday 10th August

Why the FSB is not the KGB!

Last month amendments were passed to the law codifying the FSB’s surveillance of those citizens deemed to be threats to national security. Nicolai Petro, unlike some Western commentators, sees these as potentially making Russia's domestic security procedures among the world's most transparent.
Friday 30th January

Recasting Ukraine's identity?

Ukraine should be seen as a cultural centre, binding Europe's eastern and western halves, says Nicolai N Petro
Thursday 28th February

The Medvedev moment

The next Russian president's record shows that in office he will be far from Vladimir Putin's puppet
Friday 24th February

Russian democracy: a reply to Mischa Gabowitsch

Mischa Gabowitsch's view of Russia illustrates how common misrepresentations damage understanding of the country, says Nicolai N Petro.
Monday 13th February

Russia through the looking-glass

A true understanding of developments in Russia challenges the distorted perceptions of western governments, media, and human-rights organisations, says Nicolai N Petro.
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