The New Russia

The New Russia presents Mikhail Gorbachev's perspective on his country's transformation from the Soviet era through the early 21st century. As the last leader of the USSR and a key figure in ending the Cold War, Gorbachev offers insights into the political and social changes that reshaped Russia. The book traces major developments from the collapse of the Soviet Union through Vladimir Putin's leadership. Gorbachev examines the economic reforms of the 1990s, the rise of oligarchs, and shifts in Russia's relationship with the West during this period. Gorbachev combines historical analysis with personal observations from his decades of political experience. He provides context for contemporary issues by connecting them to decisions and events from Russia's recent past. This work serves as both a historical account and a warning about the direction of Russian politics and society. The text raises questions about democracy, economic fairness, and the complex relationship between Russia's Soviet legacy and its future path.

Readers describe The New Russia as Gorbachev's personal reflection on Russia's transformation since the USSR's collapse, though many note it focuses more on defending his own legacy than providing deep analysis. Liked: - First-hand historical perspective from a key figure - Clear explanation of his reform attempts and vision - Details about relationships with other world leaders - Insights into modern Russian politics Disliked: - Self-justifying tone and selective memory - Limited criticism of his own mistakes - Repetitive arguments - Lacks fresh revelations or admissions - Too much focus on blaming others for failures One reader noted: "He seems more interested in settling scores than offering meaningful insights about Russia's future." Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (31 ratings) Several readers mention the book works better as a personal memoir than as analysis of contemporary Russia.

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📚 In this book, Gorbachev openly criticizes Vladimir Putin's leadership style and policies, marking one of his most direct public challenges to Putin's governance. 🌍 The book was published in 2016, 25 years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, offering Gorbachev's long-term perspective on Russia's transformation. 🔍 Gorbachev reveals that during the 1991 coup attempt against him, he refused multiple opportunities to flee Moscow, choosing instead to face the crisis head-on. 📖 The text includes Gorbachev's personal account of how Western leaders broke their promise not to expand NATO eastward after German reunification. 🏛️ Despite living through dramatic changes in Russian leadership from Yeltsin to Putin to Medvedev and back to Putin, Gorbachev remained the only Soviet/Russian leader to voluntarily step down from power.