Was Vladimir Putin’s tyranny inevitable?
The Economist
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new book exploring Boris Nemtsov’s life and legacy challenges the notion of inevitability surrounding Vladimir Putin’s rise to power. While formally succeeding Boris Yeltsin,Putin represented a stark ideological shift from Russia’s early post-Soviet liberal leadership. In contrast,Nemtsov,a prominent critic of Putin,embodied the ideals of Yeltsin’s era and became a vocal advocate for political reform. His tragic assassination in 2015 by a Chechen hit squad marked the end of an era for Russia’s opposition movements, raising questions about the trajectory of Russian politics.
Nemtsov’s story is deeply intertwined with the broader struggle for democracy in Russia during the 1990s and 2000s. As Yeltsin’s successor, he initially seemed poised to continue the liberal reforms initiated by his predecessor. However,instead of pursuing these reforms,Nemtsov emerged as a leading figure in the opposition movement, challenging Putin’s authoritarian policies. His political journey reflects the broader shift in Russia’s direction—from tentative democratization under Yeltsin to the consolidation of power under Putin.
This narrative is particularly relevant for readers interested in business and economics. The book highlights how Russia’s political dynamics have shaped its economic landscape.Nemtsov’s advocacy for reform and his clashes with Putin’s regime underscore the challenges of navigating business in an increasingly authoritarian environment. His story also serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of political instability and repression, offering insights into the broader implications of Russia’s trajectory for global markets and international relations.
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/19/2026