Russian journalists Roman Badanin and Mikhail Rubin have published a detailed biography of Vladimir Putin after leaving Russia following pressure from authorities over their investigative work.
The journalists, who founded the independent investigative outlet Proekt, were subjected to raids and other restrictions before leaving the country in 2021. Their book, The Tsar in Person, examines Putin’s rise to power and the political system that has developed around him.
Journalists left Russia in 2021
Badanin and Rubin were targeted by Russian authorities after years of reporting on senior officials and people close to the Kremlin.
In June 2021, security officers searched their homes in Moscow. Rubin later found his passport placed on a table after the raid. Weeks later, Russian authorities designated Proekt an “undesirable” organisation.
Rubin left Moscow shortly afterwards. Badanin, who was outside Russia at the time, decided not to return. He described his choice as being between prison and exile.
Book examines Putin’s rise
The nearly 800-page biography traces Putin’s career from his early work in St Petersburg through his rise to the Kremlin and his continued rule since 2000.
Badanin and Rubin draw on decades of investigative journalism and hundreds of interviews. The book is currently published in Russian and French, and the authors say it is intended partly for younger Russians who may have limited knowledge of the country before Putin became president.
The authors present their account as an examination of the political system surrounding Putin and the consequences of repression and war. Their descriptions and conclusions are those of the authors and people interviewed for the book.
Concerns over journalists’ safety
The journalists say they remain concerned about their safety outside Russia. Badanin said FBI agents visited his California home last year and warned him about a possible threat from foreign intelligence services.
Both journalists continue to work outside Russia. Their experience illustrates the risks faced by some independent Russian journalists who have left the country after pressure from authorities.
Source: The Guardian
