Unlocking Kremlin. Why Russia operates the way it does

Miksi Venäjä toimii niin kuin se toimii

- Antero Holmila

- Martti J. Kari

It has been said that Russia’s actions cannot be understood with reason. This book claims the opposite is true.

Seeds for this book grew from former Deputy Chief of Intelligence Martti J. Kari’s popular lecture about Russian Strategic Culture, which has become the most-watched online university lecture in Finnish history (over 1.8 million viewers). The one-hour lecture can also be viewed with English subtitles by clicking here.

Narrated in a colorful and accessible manner, the story of Russia begins with Kyivan Rus in the late 800s, moves through the era of the Russian tsars and the Soviet Union, and extends to the war in Ukraine.

In Russia, corruption is deeply ingrained in society, and the Kremlin fears democratic movements. In modern times, Russia has transformed into a fascist state. Russians often employ a flexible approach to truth and lies, known as tactical truth.

History is nostalgically viewed in Russia, and its use significantly impacts the present and future. The special services eliminate those considered enemies and traitors abroad. Why is this? The authors explain and clarify these phenomena.

Ask for the English materials by clicking here

Rights sold

Estonian: Postimees

Materials

Finnish edition
English sample
Synopsis

Reviews

‘Kari and Holmila’s book gives a chilling answer to the question of why Russia works the way it does. The book is a thorough, fluently written, sometimes snarky, but still frighteningly realistic description of our neighboring country.’ — Pauli Välimäki, Kulttuuritoimitus

‘Russia’s actions are mirrored in the country’s history – an easy-to-read nonfiction book opens up the possible reasons why Ukraine is at war.’ — Pekka Söderlund, Kankanpään Seutu

‘How long can events from a distant past influence a nation’s behavior patterns and decision-making on the international stage? The answer is: centuries. In their book, Martti J. Kari and Antero Holmila describe how Russia’s current mindset is shaped by events that date back to the Mongol invasion, suggesting that our large neighbor remains a prisoner of its history. This insightful analysis helps to uncover the roots of the conflicts between Ukraine and Russia, the attitudes we should adopt towards developments in Russia, and what to consider when thinking about the future. The arguments presented in the book clarify Russia’s behavior at both individual and societal levels.’ —Piret Veigel, Senior Editor, Postimees publishing, Estonia