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India and its neighbourhood relations
Context:
- The recent events in Russia, including the armed column of the Wagner private military company marching towards Moscow, have caused global apprehensions.
- The implications of any radical challenge, like one posed by the Wagner rebellion, to President Vladimir Putin’s government, can go beyond Russia, potentially impacting the world order.
About the unfolding situations in Russia and its implications:
The Wagner Rebellion Episode:
- Led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner group and a former associate of President Putin, the rebellion sent shockwaves due to its unprecedented nature in Russia.
- The event exposed vulnerabilities within Russian statehood and society, hinting at deeper underlying vulnerabilities.
The Potential Ripple Effects:
- Political scientist Kirill Rogov highlights that unsuccessful military mutinies often precede major historical events such as revolutions, coups, or civil wars.
- The mutiny signifies a divergence in the perception of the “motherland” among those who pledged loyalty, raising questions about the unity of Russia.
- During the mutiny, President Putin emphasized the need for unity and actions that divide the country were denounced as betrayal, with similarity drawn to the upheaval of 1917, resulting in the collapse of the Army, state disintegration, and civil war.
- Political analysts perceive the events as a moment of acute political crisis in 21st-century Russia.
Possible Implications in Russia:
- Political Stability: The country is at war with Ukraine which has been continuing for over a year. The rebellion by the Wagner group exposed cracks within Russian statehood and society, raising concerns about political stability and the unity of the nation.
- Government Response: President Putin’s call for unity and the subsequent crackdown on the rebellion may lead to further consolidation of power, potentially resulting in tighter control over dissent and opposition.
- Public Perception: The events may affect public trust in the government, particularly if grievances raised by the rebels resonate with the broader population, highlighting issues such as corruption and decision-making.
Global Implications:
- Geopolitical Impact: Any instability in Russia could have far-reaching consequences for the global balance of power, affecting international relations and alliances.
- Economic Consequences: Russia is a major player in the global economy, and political upheaval will further raise uncertainties and impact global markets, trade, and investments.
- Security Concerns: Given Russia’s nuclear capabilities and military strength, instability within the country when the country is at war, could raise concerns about regional and global security.