Since the end of the 1990s, Russian President Vladimir Putin has worked with a cadre of oligarchs to secure political and economic power in Russia. Dr. Anders Åslund, a leading expert on post-Soviet economies and societies, served as a senior adviser to the Russian government from 1991-1994, working under President Boris Yeltsin and Acting Prime Minister Yegor Gaidar to transition the Soviet economy to a democratic and capitalist system. As the foundation was laid for what would become the modern Russian system—dubbed “crony capitalism”—Åslund had a front-row seat to the Kremlin’s decision-making process, and has unique insight into the forces and personalities at this critical moment in Russia’s history.

This event is designed to be a question-and-answer session, with viewers highly encouraged to submit their questions for Dr. Åslund to answer live. The discussion is moderated by Eurasia Center Deputy Director Melinda Haring.

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The Eurasia Center’s mission is to enhance transatlantic cooperation in promoting policies that strengthen stability, democratic values, and prosperity in Eurasia, from Eastern Europe in the West to the Caucasus, Russia, and Central Asia in the East.