Putin's Cold War Tactics: Newly Declassified Soviet Archives with Sergey Radchenko | Ep. 32

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Professor Sergey Radchenko, a distinguished Cold War historian from Johns Hopkins University, to uncover shocking revelations from newly declassified Soviet archives. Professor Radchenko, author of To Run the World: The Kremlin’s Cold War Bid for Global Power, offers unprecedented insights into Soviet foreign policy, Russia's Cold War ambitions, and the driving forces behind Putin's modern-day strategies. Buy 'To Run the World' here: https://amzn.to/4egbGIZ *Amazon affiliate link Explore how Putin may be mirroring the tactics of Soviet leaders like Stalin and Brezhnev, and learn about the hidden power struggles between the USSR and China during the Cold War. We dive into pivotal moments like the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Sino-Soviet split, and how Soviet leaders sought legitimacy through global recognition. Could these same psychological motivations be fueling Putin's actions today? How does Russia's quest for influence continue to shape the modern geopolitical landscape? Join us as we ask the pressing questions: Is Putin trying to rebuild Russia’s empire? Can diplomacy or deterrence stop his ambitions? And what lessons from the Cold War still apply to the present-day conflict in Ukraine? This episode is packed with expert analysis, untold stories, and critical insights into the psychology driving the Kremlin’s decisions—past and present. Tune in for a gripping discussion that blends history, politics, and global strategy. If you’re interested in Cold War history, Russian politics, or understanding the deeper motivations behind today’s headlines, you won’t want to miss this conversation! 00:00 – Introduction to Sergey Radchenko 02:13 – Cold War History: Soviet Archives Unsealed 06:45 – Radchenko’s Background: Russia, China, and the Cold War 13:20 – The Soviet Union’s Quest for Global Recognition 18:06 – Sino-Soviet Split: The Hidden Rivalry 25:34 – How the Cold War Still Influences Russia Today 32:12 – The Cuban Missile Crisis: Lessons and Missteps 38:45 – Putin’s Ambitions: Rebuilding the Empire? 44:32 – The Psychology of Soviet and Russian Leaders 52:05 – Can Diplomacy End the Ukraine Conflict? 58:16 – What Did We Miss? Radchenko’s Final Thoughts We are also on YouTube and Apple Podcasts! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElevatedThoughtsPod Apple Pods: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/elevated-thoughts/id1736414535 Find more at ElevatedThoughtsPod.com