Russian Civil-Military Relations: Putin's Legacy

As Russia reasserts itself on the international stage, the relationship between its civilian and military spheres remains one of the determining factors in the organization of political power. Thomas Gomart's "Russian Civil-Military Relations: Putin's Legacy" looks beyond traditional dualism between the Kremlin and the military, introducing the role of the security services in Russian power distribution. With the support of the siloviki (security service) and justification through the fight against international terrorism, Putin worked throughout his administration to reestablish presidential control over the military. As Russia transitions to Dmitry Medvedev's presidency, it is important to not only review the Putin presidency, which has given many of the country's institutions their shape, but also to reach back further into post-communist and Soviet history for an understanding of the realities of today. "Russian Civil-Military Relations" provides crucial analysis of the nature and evolution of the balance between civilian and military institutions. These relations will continue to influence regime development, security policy, and societal attitudes that build from Putin's Russia to Medvedev's administration and into the future.