Ebook: The strongman Vladimir Putin and the struggle for Russia

The secret policeman's ball -- Courting the West -- The battle for economic reform -- The darker side -- New Europe, old Europe -- Putin Mark II -- Enemies everywhere -- A new Cold War -- Media, missiles, Medvedev -- The descent into war -- Resetting relations with the West -- The strongman and his friends -- Tandemology;Russia under Vladimir Putin has proved a prickly partner for the West, a far cry from the democratic ally many hoped for when the Soviet Union collapsed. Abroad, Putin has used Russia's energy strength as a foreign policy weapon, while at home he has cracked down on opponents, adamant that only he has the right vision for his country's future.