Konstantin Samoilov - Putin’s War to Secure Russian Borders has Actually Stripped Russia of Security

GUEST: Konstantin Samoilov - KZbinr and commentator.
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Russia has no borders. This was the expansive and imperialistic idea behind the Russian World philosophy. But Ukraine has turned the tables on this idea and shown that Russia’s vast border regions are undefended, and in some ways undefendable. From the ‘little blue men’ appearing in Belgorod, to the drone strikes deep in Russian territory, the theatrical explosion about the Kremlin roof, and the mysterious fires happening at strategic facilities all over Russia, it seems that Putin’s war to secure Russia’s borders has actually had the effect of stripping Russia of any safety and security.
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SPEAKER:
Konstantin Samoilov is a well-known KZbinr whose channel ‘Inside Russia’ comments insightfully on Russia’s decent into authoritarianism over the last few years. But now, like many others, he’s outside Russia, with no idea of when he can return there.
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LINKS:
/ @insiderussia
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#konstantinsamoilov #economic sanctions #russiasanctions #ukraine #ukrainewar #russia #zelensky #putin #propaganda #war #disinformation #hybridwarfare #foreignpolicy #communism #sovietunion #postsoviet
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
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PLATFORMS:
Twitter: / curtainsilicon
Instagram: / siliconcurtain
Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6...
Linkedin: / finkjonathan
Patreon: / siliconcurtain
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Welcome to the Silicon Curtain podcast. Please like and subscribe if you like the content we produce. It will really help to increase the popularity of our content in KZbin’s algorithm. Our material is now being made available on popular podcasting platforms as well, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

[@carolwilliams8511]

Great to see Konstantin here. Thanks for inviting him again.

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@NainakaiAyita]

Yus! Great to see him highlighted more! Not all Russians are bad.

[@thomaselliot2257]

From one fellow sub and commenter to another HOWDY HOWDY

[@sumiland6445]

Konstantin has the advantage of having lived in other countries and gone to university in USA. He had returned to Russia to work with a friend and "start a new family" ... Konstantin had to learn about business law and corporate operations in Russia which led him to acquaint himself with government operations. He has a unique understanding of law and noticed changes and additions over the past 5 years in preparation for something. He wasn't sure what, but became clear when Russia invaded Ukraine. That's where I caught up with Konstantin. He was an established youtuber. He had videos posted from when he lived in other countries starting 11 years ago. He caught my attention because he was willing to ask questions and share what he knew - reading between the lines - and he took great risks. But he never gave up and was honest when he was depressed and exhausted and confused. I rarely miss a live stream now even if I only watch his presentation. Stay on track, Konstantin, and never tire of doing what is right and good. ❤

[@dpelpal]

This guy is a complete russian shill. He won't denounce russia, he dances around issues, and he deleted the video he made denouncing the strike against the Kerch bridge. The Kerch bridge was a military target, and he knows it. He has also stated that the Maidan revolution was wrong, and that the USA "caused" it.

[@ridethecurve55]

I was hoping Johnathon would have asked about Konstanin's family, and if they'ver been able to be together at all.

[@lollypop2413]

He is a draft dodger trying to make $$$$ spreading bs

[@sumiland6445]

@@ridethecurve55 Jonathan did a previous interview with Konstantin. I can tell that they are all safe. He's very guarded because the obvious danger that follows anyone speaking truth about Russia. Actually, I think he takes way too many chances, but he is dedicated and that's how it is sometimes. Can't always hide from danger. Like a very rich, murderous dictator does ... 😖

[@wegder]

I usually listen to Konstantin's message everyday, my main sympathy is with Ukraine but a new Russia is very important.

[@philjameson292]

I have watched a number of Konstantins videos since the start of the war and before he left Russia It's interesting and heartbreaking to see how he has changed and how he has wrestled with his conscience In the early days you could see his loyalty to his country (if not its leadership). I was critical of him that he had to take a side and take a side he did, for the positive In the end he is an ordinary guy grappling with an extraordinary set of circumstances He is a model for the future Russia that we all hope that it can be

[@claudemaggard7162]

I totally agree with you russia would be a better place if it had more people like constantine

[@claudemaggard7162]

He is torn between the live of his country and the wicked evil regime.

[@TheSane42]

I watched one of his streams the other day having not seen anything from him in many month, and it was very apparent that he wasn't tiptoeing around issues in the same way as he used to. He's still careful in his language, but not to the point of "read between the lines" neutrality that he felt forced to maintain. Making the decision to more overtly speak against the Russian state must have been very difficult for him.

[@stevemcgowen]

@@TheSane42 Why? He left Ruzzia long ago. Other Ruzzians have called Putler for what he is, and the war for what it is, and your hero king grifter acts like he has kremlin censors...

[@bigman23DOTS]

I believe he would be a very good politician….shame many like him won’t get an opportunity

[@odins_claw]

Konstantin is absolutely awesome. Highly recommend his channel Inside Russia.

[@Dr_MKUltra]

Konstantin is real Russian patriot. He cares for his people and his nation. The future of Russia is the hands of its people, not the Russian mafia.

[@dsfs17987]

has he started making videos in russian to do something about it or is it still all in English?

[@stevemcgowen]

He's a propagandist grifter who gets paid to make Westerners feel sorry for Ruzzians...

[@tautvydask3626]

​@jz1199 making videos in Russian ain't gonna change the mind of russians lol they can also use subtitles

[@sujac664]

@@dsfs17987 I don't think so, he's more a voice of hope for future russia, to non russian speakers..... and most russians searching for answers would probably pass him by if he speaks in the same language that's dominating their daily info input.... KZbin subtitles are excellent especially when they're not run through a kremlinSieve.

[@linleywatson8291]

Love this guy from New Zealand what a great citizen of the world

[@artcamp7]

man. when Russians are able to be critical no one is harsher on Russian leadership

[@pwp8737]

not surprising, they have to live with the consequences of those criminals.

[@Alex-rr7qc]

He's upset because Putin didn't manage to capture the rest of Ukraine as easily as Crimea (which he was and still perfectly fine with)

[@gmw3083]

Konstantin is full of bull. He says Russia shot itself in both feet and wrecked its economy. Russia didn't detonate Nordstream. Anyway, its natural gas transmission is curtailed for now, but the turkstream lines capacity will be doubled. It the meantime Russia is selling oil to India who refines it then sells end products to Europe. Russia is selling diesel to Saudi Arabia who doesn't do anything but turn around and resell it to Europe. Russia is operating ok. Europe and the UK and going down the drain and that will continue until they cut DCs leash.

[@terryrafferty7559]

I've watched Konstantin since before he left russia. I can't tell you how much i have learned from him. I worry about his safety.

[@alexv850]

Exactly Konstantin. "we realized due to our inactivity our country is at where it become ' I am from Hungary, and I cannot agree with you more. Every country is basically a mirror of their political system. Every country deserves the likes of putins and orbans because their political aphaty or indifference created it. We have very serious problems here I. Hungary but Russia is on a totally different level. Centuries of totalitarian abuse created an awfully indifferent and apolitical mass. And the current leaders ruthlessly take advantage of it. Unfortunately iam also very pessimistic about the future of this awful place. Building a country on lies for hundreds of years, the eventual awakening will be brutal and sadly, very explosive. All we can do is : full support to Ukraine. This evil cannot let to win, this barbarian thinking must be defeated once and for all. The world has no other option. Slava Ukraine from Hungary. Glory to the heroes of Ukraine. Never bow to sick dictators and their sick friends. 🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦

[@davidterry702]

Well said

[@azizaibrahim1155]

Apathy and indifference produced Trump as well !!!

[@patriciapalmer4215]

I've watched Konstantin since his very first blog. A charming, extremely intelligent, gentleman in its finest sense.

[@planet-karma]

Thanks for another great interview. A someone who studied in Moscow at the end of the Soviet Union, it is interesting to hear him talk about the optimism that people had that the system would change but how the Siloviki eventually took back their power. There was definitely a feeling of hope and an openness to change at the time and I never sensed any hostility towards the West or myself as a someone from the West while I was there. I certainly never heard the kind of genocidal rhetoric that has now become so commonplace in the country. I, therefore, find it difficult to listen to people say that this whole situation was inevitable and Russia has always been this way. I don’t believe it was inevitable, however, any change now will be so much harder and more violent than after the fall of the USSR. There will be a huge reckoning for those who are not only allowing this barbarism to happen but support it.

[@outlawJosieFox]

Sadly the West has been paying for Putin's shenanigans. I too speak Russian and was in the SU in 1992 and 1993. Russians are incredible and resilient but they have been played by their leaders. On the other hand, who else just got played big by Putin??? Brexit anyone??. Edit should have clarified. City of London has been laundering Russian oligarchs' stolen roubles for a couple of decades now. British passport for oligarch? That's one million pounds to you Sir

[@Morbidlynx1]

I remember the fall of the Soviet Union. I had a brief period of hope that things would improve and that Russia would become a wonderful society and country as a whole. Putin is the worst thing to happen to Russia. Instead of attempting to diplomatically mend relations and build bridges to former soviet states. The attitude has been anything but diplomacy.

[@mrnobody3161]

I've looked at this quandary from a Psychological Health Issue and with the knowledge that intergenerational trauma can be inherited from one generation to another. If you look at Russian History it is full of traumatizing events for more than a thousand years. I know personally that if one doesn't process the impacts of a traumatic event, the trauma continues at one level or another. Also when a person doesn't know that they're living with trauma, it is almost impossible to make rational decisions when they are constantly being triggered by more traumatic incidents directly or indirectly. It's a very bleak picture. It's apparent that the majority of Russian people aren't going to get any Psychological help with this phenomena, unless the current toxic regime is replaced by a rational governmental identity that is based on Democratic values, with the knowledge that the Russian people require comprehensive health care for physical and psychological rehabilitation to move towards a society that creates a fair, equitable, healthy environment to have lives worth living without out the destabilization of continuous traumatization. This is not unique to Russia and affects the majority of humanity directly or indirectly.

[@planet-karma]

​@@mrnobody3161 Agreed. Considering that Russia lost a good percentage of its male population in both World Wars and then under the Stalinist purges, it had to also have done incredible damage to the society. It’s interesting, however, that Ukraine experienced something similar (along with the Holodomor which was tantamount to a genocide) and yet, has evolved very differently. I saw Ukraine described as a matriarchal patriarchy with a culture that encourages independence while Russia is a patriarchy where people tend to look to a strong father figure as a leader and are more communal minded. This may be a simplistic generalizaton but, from what I’ve seen, Ukrainians are very independent but then come together to help one other and care for those in need. They also take initiative (and unlike Russians are allowed to in the military). In Russia, on top of a dysfunctional patriarchy, you also have the rise of extreme nationalism, religious zealotry and xenophobia that has affected the general population (not just extremist groups). I think it would be very interesting to study why they are so different although I realize that the general opinion is that they are not.

[@mduckernz]

@@planet-karma The general opinion is that they are not? Really? I think that might have been the perception a few years ago, because that was something that Russian propaganda and general information operations stressed as heavily as possible - likely to help justify their seizing of Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk to international audiences - and also because people just didn’t know that much about Ukraine. Nowadays, I am not convinced this would be the case anymore.

[@mattjames7272]

Konstantin is a good man. Appreciate you both

[@suewilkinson910]

I love Konstantin's channel. He's so good at teaching us things we would never otherwise know about the war and Russia.

[@christophervaughan2637]

I like this guy Konstantin. When the Ukraine war kicked off he was the first person I listened to and felt relieved to hear someone who was responding with normal and reasonable emotions and who is also able to think for himself. He is courageous too: when the war broke out he spoke the truth at great risk to himself

[@robertr.1879]

Konstantin has a big heart. You listen to his podcasts and you can see he has a lot of compassion and a desire to conect eveybody to their humanity. When the war is over, people like Konstantin will be important to rebuild friendship and confidence between people.

[@mikefallwell1301]

He is almost as good at telling people what they want to hear, as Putin was 20 years ago.

[@tangodaze]

@@mikefallwell1301so you don’t trust him….

[@RainerMichelle]

@@tangodaze it is not about trust, Konstantin is a brilliant entertainer, he tells people in the West what they want to hear, and they donate money for it, every entertainer deserves to get paid, but don't think Konstantin is out to change the world, he lost his job and now he is making money to keep up with his comfortable lifestyle with his youtube channel, that's all

[@joek600]

@@RainerMichelle Exactly! Im open to listen every opinion from both sides. But this guy is a slime ball. But I guess it works. He managed to convince a bunch of fat American cats, that love to hear someone reassuring their uneducated impressions, to give him their money ''or else'' Putin is going to conscript a 50 year old man with no prior military experience, just because 🤣🤣🤣

[@77thTrombone]

⁠​⁠@mikefallwell1301 - That's why his breakfast club in Tashkent is so popular. He tells the Russian emigres what they want to hear, too. Since they're all emigres, Konstantin undoubtedly capitalizes on the opportunity to teach the others his gypsy techniques (under the guise of breakfast.) They learn his international con artistry skills; he collects tuition for their education. It's a win-win situation. In fact, it's probably only a matter of time before he takes over the breakfast club restaurant using all the money he's extorted from around the world.

[@ericwasil1286]

A universal truth- Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

[@TheThrowawaydog]

When I watched Konstatin's video of leaving the country it became clear to me that Russian society is completely collapsed. Governance and civil society were detached for a long time, but now there's only governance narrative

[@Kuznetsova_19]

Your wrong,its not collapsed,its more stronger than before.

[@jeannettejordan7104]

The most interesting discussion on the current state of Russia that I have heard anywhere. Thanks for enlightening us.

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍

[@foridor]

Konstantin is a brilliant economist with a broad awareness of world affairs and the future of Russia as this war unfolds. I have followed him since the war began , and it's good to hear him in this context. Brilliant!

[@TheBezaleel]

Glory to Ukraine !!!

[@clippo111]

Fantastic interview, Konstantine gives me hope for the quiet Russians, his work "building bridges" is always inspiring and delivered in common sense terms. 🤗🙏

[@dbsteckey]

Great guest. Konstantin is honest, truthful and not afraid to speak out against Russian atrocities and propaganda. A real breath of fresh air.

[@EspenJohan]

Yes, it's good that he speaks out. But remember that the reason he dares, he no longer lives in Russia

[@mariereddy4259]

There are many like Constantin. Run with the hares and hunt with the hounds as opportunity knocks.

[@docinparadise]

He’s a fraud and a conman.

[@joek600]

now give him your money

[@dsfs17987]

@@EspenJohan not only that, if he and expat russians wanted to achieve anything more than popularity on YT (and revenue), they'd be making those videos and commentaries in russian for russians, not in English, at this point it achieves nothing, west is going to support Ukraine because it can't afford not to, so telling what he can tell to English speakers has no impact, and russians that vote for putin don't listen to English speaking people, so no chance of causing any issues in russia

[@jodesrhames]

I support Konstantin and am a dedicated follower of his channel. He has a wonderful group of empathetic followers that continues to grow.

[@DeniseSyrett]

The golden nugget in this interview, for me, is his explanation of the differences between the Russian Dream vs the American Dream. The rewards of the Russian Dream bind people to the corrupt system. And a Russian can’t start again within that system if they fall out the way an American can in the U.S.

[@mrkeogh]

If you want to succeed in Russia, you cannot avoid regime capture. One can view the invasions of Georgia and Ukraine as the same phenomenon we saw in the early Putin regime: the seizure of private companies by both gangsters and officials, often in coordination. That tacit understanding continued until they became one and the same thing. The ever-expanding appetite of the vertical for money and power necessitated looking further afield.

[@ianmorgan1325]

​@@mrkeogh well summarised

[@mateuszminsky5619]

Hordes, it is what they do. The dream of an ever-expanding, chauvinistic horde is never-ending chaos, and power for the sake of power.

[@markmarco2880]

What a delight to see Konstantin Samoilov. He is the genuine article. He is able to surround an unsettling story, which provides for me personally a certain comfort. It is the effect of truth. I am grateful, again.

[@markmitchell457]

Another excellent show. Konstantin is always good to see. He understands Russia, business, and people. Thanks for doing this video, both of you.

[@AliceinWonderlandzz]

As predicted the final result of this 'police action' is the disintegration of the Russian federation into warring tribal provinces. Konstantin is a good guy. Wish him the best.

[@Grundewalt]

You are wrong about K. He emobodie what is wrong about the russians and made possible the rise of putin, along with european /usa wishfull thinking and apeasement. Depressed, weak, apolitical, saw in democracy only the opportunity of money making. If his plans when he returned were succesful and he could have been incentivized by russians, dunno, a mini oligarch or something, he would have take it. His discourse is victimisation about lost financial oportunities.

[@jeffcurtis5460]

Once again, congrats Jonathan! Blessings and prayers to Konstantin. He’s doing important work!

[@Fu-orksGive.PEACE.achance.]

This gentleman is rational honest and he loves his country. Keep strong Konstantin and Slava Ukraine.

[@isee9273]

Konstantin is a treasure and a hero.❤

[@johntait491]

An excellent and insightful interview. Thank you gentlemen. 👍

[@rahjah6958]

I’ve been following konstantin for a couple years on and off, I really feel for that guy

[@supertuscans9512]

Yep I like Constantine but I stopped tuning for about 6 months after his comments on the Kerch Bridge incident.

[@jurgenkoks9142]

@@supertuscans9512 I gave him a second chance and am happy I did, he has made exceptional content since then and is capable of also changing his mind on things when he gets feedback from his community

[@supertuscans9512]

I did too eventually. I think generally he’s very good at what he does. His presentation skills make him very engaging.

[@stevemcgowen]

He's a grifter. From Putler nationalist to superchat whor-...

[@arneczool6614]

@@supertuscans9512 Which of his comments do you mean? He can easily be misunderstood, as first, he always tried to speak in a way thats still kinda covered within the rules of the russian laws (1) , and secondly even after that often just imitates the "naive russian inhabitant" just to show us how regular russians think after being brainwashed ... but he clearly shows all the time, how much he is against the war russia wages. (1) (for example by not criticising directly the government, but rather showing, how different parts of the government mention different numbers, which, for the educated listener were simply proves for the russian lies)

[@gabriellagirardi4741]

Great interview! Konstantin is undoubtely the future of Russia. A brighter future.

[@joestrat2723]

Hi Konstantin! Always good to see you. Another great video Jonathan, you've got great guests and great questions for them.

[@Mike-br8zt]

Stay safe Konstantin.

[@ManyfiresWoman]

Thank you Konstantin for giving us a clearer picture of what's currently happening in Russia. Some I suspected were happening. But others I was saddened to hear. Sad for the people of Russia. I realized that even if Putin's war stopped tomorrow, the Russian people will still be suffering the effects for years. As will Ukraine and her people. It's hard to accept.

[@uribensh]

Constantine is a very smart and kind man

[@annemcleod8505]

Great respect for Konstantin. The tone of his delivery says so much: quiet, thoughtful, weary. Articulating truths he very much regrets.

[@MFST]

Konstantin is a great guy, I follow most of his streams. Let's hope the future of Russia involves people like him. Thanks for the interview!

[@PalleRasmussen]

You got Konstantin on👍 He is a good man. It has been interesting to see how the process he has gone through.

[@user-fr4qi9cd2q]

lol no

[@PalleRasmussen]

@@user-fr4qi9cd2q any reasons or actual arguments?

[@notrussianbot7318]

Konstantin is an honest guy and one of the few russians that show there is a peaceful way out of this.

[@markb8468]

2 of my favorites on 1 show! Thanks guys

[@MarcosElMalo2]

Maybe Russia would be safer without a strong military, sort of like keeping matches out of the hands of children.

[@kickicker6058]

Good luck with that. Read their history.

[@MarcosElMalo2]

@@kickicker6058 Good luck with your efforts to tell other people to read history. If you’re referring to “The Great Patriotic War”, the Nazis invaded the Soviet Union. Russia wasn’t even an independent nation at the time, and it suffered less than other parts of the Soviet Union. And if we stick to the facts, The Red Army of WWII had more men under arms, tanks, and planes than than the Nazis, but the USSR got invaded anyway. So apparently having a mighty military didn’t help back then.

[@pwp8737]

Russia's safety will be enhanced by Ukraine in NATO; otherwise Kyiv will sharpen its knives for a future showdown. Russia's dismantling and possible future association with NATO and the EU would do wonders for everyone.

[@michaelf7093]

If we don't want to keep revisiting this crap every generation, the West is going to have to take the lead on rebuilding the post war Russia, in the same way we did after WWII to Germany and Japan. A Marshall Plan-type of reconstruction, alongside an occupation, to teach the Russians how to live in an open, lawful, and free society.

[@ericconnor8419]

@@kickicker6058 Russia has a history of mostly losing wars and conducting farcical naval operations. We did it to the Germans and the Japanese and they were much tougher and better organised. If you think we can't do it to Russia perhaps you should read a European history book. We have been fighting for 1000 years longer than Russia has existed. We were a bad choice to invade.

[@viktorias63]

He speaks "southern Ukrainian accent" Bilhorod and Rostov were Ukrainian territories in 1917 part of Ukraine's People Republic. The accent they have in those region is Ukrainian. His Russia took so much from us.

[@INSIDERUSSIA]

Ukrainian indeed. My mother is half Ukrainian. Please forgive us

[@FrankFaulkner-qf8cb]

Brilliant, also Konstantin predicts what most clear thinking people plainly see shaping up in Russia

[@andrewjacobson556]

Great interview!! This was very important to know the Russian side of things and we know not every Russian citizen supports this war!!

[@alexbayer2365]

Most of us don’t support it.

[@andrewjacobson556]

@@alexbayer2365 We know, and our to countries have done good things together in space rechearch for one!!

[@alexbayer2365]

@Sam that’s not true. Only Kremlin’s propaganda can say that.

[@ferizarakovic5690]

​@@alexbayer2365 😂😂😂😂🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦SLAVA UKRAINI. ❤BOSNA I HERCEGOVINA❤🇧🇦

[@amadeuz8161]

Not supporting and allowing it to happen could be seen as responsible for the action. Like if I allow another human to die without trying to help them I am seen as guilty so are the ones just living their lives in peace innocent or are they just silently enjoying the fruits of the Kremlin's 600 year conquest, extermination of other cultures and stealing land? After WW2 we saw the German people as responsible, why is it different when it comes to Russia and the blood they have spilled the last 600 years. You do know that my country is like the last standing stronghold of my people and the rest have suffered the Russification's love. They have even removed the grave site of the people that were killed just for not being Russian to cover up the ruins they are building their future on. Every living ethnic Russian is responsible in some way, if its then being a radical Z fanatic or being the one sitting home at the table saying they cant do anything about it. If all those subdued ethnic Russians would hit the streets in protest the police force made to subdue em would get paralyzed when their own family is there. As long as it is other ethnic groups protesting within Russia they will just slaughter em like sheep not even blinking before they see it as benefiting them. I do know that they say "but what can I do". I can only say that you have more power in Russia than a non ethnic Russian. Like speak out, speak louder than the propaganda and the bots and then if Putin really is ready to put 50m people into jail without creating a revolt, hes a magician. Putin's system fear the people more than they fear a gun so use it or sit as a guilty part as marking yourself with a Z. People have always died to improve their countries, like even worker rights protests have demanded lives in our history but one thing is sure "There will be no change if you just sit on your a$$". Konstantin is doing something but you need 35m more ethnic Russians, ethnic minorities in Russia doesn't really count as you can see on their living standard in their areas(they are mere servants for em).

[@johnpelosi4117]

Konstantin Samoilov is such a terrific voice for Reason in these circumstances, it is deeply moving to hear his analysis from a Russian citizen's point of view , his perspective is so crucial for separating the humanity of the Russian People from the terrible conditions imposed by the Putin regime and the centuries of Authoritarianism which allowed it to thrive.

[@Grace.allovertheplace]

Hi Jonathan, as always great interview! It’s making me happy to see my dear friend Konstantin, I’m really proud of him and everything he’s doing 🙏 I wish you a splendid weekend. With kindness and respect, Grace

[@lynetteray2146]

I'm a Russophile. I speak Russian and spent 13 years of my life in the former Soviet Union, including 3 years in Moscow. I stopped travelling there in 2007 because I saw what was beginning to happen there - made me very suspicious. Being a Russophile, being Russified is one thing. Wanting to carry the passport - uh no!

[@cloraformsgood5340]

Konstantin - the definition of a decent human being .

[@Clairejart]

I follow Konstantin too and appreciate his thoughtful words. He gives me hope for Russia. I hope he can return home some day.

[@lynetteray2146]

Konstantin has a lot to say and is fully informed about what is happening in Russia today and tomorrow. He also has the education and experience to be able to analyze how things/people are interacting and what the potential outcome may be. Jonathan, you know how difficult it is to interpret those things Russian. It's a bit of a mine zone on a good day. Konstantin navigates this interpretation very well.

[@jkaiserling]

Wow, I was floored by this session! The two of you, Jonathan and Konstantin, made this a great show. The conclusion of this mess is clear for many clear thinking people. I do believe that even Putin has nightmares of this conclusion of the Federation breaking up...basically falling into a civil war, similar to October 1917. And as we have seen many times in history, once the cracks open wider, the flood waters of this change in Russia will not be stoppable until all are exhausted and say, "Where do we go now?" I believe it was Josef Stalin that said people must always be made to struggle, for that makes progress. When there is nothing to struggle for, people become complacent. That's when the people become irrelevant for their government and the government beast has no accountability for its population.

[@georgeflaxman]

Jonathan, Listening to you and Konstantin I realise that I have the same kind of views here about the Tories. The UK will never prosper again whilst we tolerate any of these Tory Nationalists. I'm a LibDem and proud of it.

[@Mr.Monta77]

Konstantin is a really great commentator. I listen to him at every opportunity.

[@Anita-k]

Great interview, both of you! Although I was infuriated (again) with K calling the Ukrainian counter offensive an "Ukrainian offensive" in his livestream video title a while ago, as well as going on about why it's an "offensive" in his eyes (admittedly I've to watch that part again) and I wrote it to him twice so far. However I also acknowledge, that he's getting so many comments now, that it's humanly impossible for him to read them all ... even if he'd only do KZbin and nothing else in his entire life, humanly impossible level of impossible I mean. So I guess I'll have to repeat myself several times til he sees it. All in all I've learned a lot from him though and don't wanna badmouth him in any way. I definitely learned more than from anybody else type of learning I mean (although I'm low income, so my donations go to Ukraine only).

[@clalmeida67]

🌠🌠🌠 Thanks for your enlightening interviews, you conduct them brilliantly and your guests are top top top!!! 🌻☮ Love and support from Portugal! ☀️

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@Noel-ji8nm]

@Silicon Curtain Can you interview Scott Ritter, many thanks.

[@its_Today_]

@@Noel-ji8nm Why on earth would you suggest that utter fool? Legit question 🥴🙄 Oh my bad, cheers for your input Ivan, here’s a potato 🥔😘

[@dianthus605]

Thanks for another important interview. When Samoilov says "Never Again" at 52:52 I recognise that feeling, I had it too. But it shows a big difference between Ukraine and Russia. When the USSR collapsed there were opportunities for each state to change for the better. Ukraine grasped their own future but Russia did not. Ukraine has earned their right to a brighter future. I hope for something better for Russia too but I don't know how.

[@joek600]

Seriously have you ever visited Ukraine? Cause I have and its a black hole of corruption. Basically its Russia in perpetual 90's.

[@Lonewolfmike]

This was a great interview. Very, very insightful.

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@lynetteray2146]

It's so amazing that Konstantin has landed in Uzbekistan as this point in history. Uzbekistan is experiencing a period of economic and political expansion. It has welcomed him and many other talented/well-educated Russians. He was wise picking Tashkent. His fellow Russians were also wise. One of the better havens for Russians at this time.

[@juliadia007]

The incursion into undefended Russia puts the lie to Peter Zeihan’s contention that the Russia will always need to expand to naturally defensible borders. It shows the opposite, that the Kremlin was completely comfortable taking advantage of the “rules based order,” as the source of its border security.

[@GR-cf4qh]

It’s pretty obvious that Russia doesn’t actually need to expand to defensible borders. They’ve got over 6000 nuclear weapons after all. I think that most Russians really do believe that they will be vulnerable if they don’t expand to fill these gaps however. People aren’t always rational.

[@kkpenney444]

@@GR-cf4qh They only feel that vulnerability because Kremlin propaganda has been feeding that insecurity for years to eventually justify this empirical expansion.

[@SirAntoniousBlock]

@@GR-cf4qh Nuclear weapons are just strategic chess pieces, they can only be used to fight fire with fire, they are useless against civil uprising.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@GR-cf4qh They would have been fine with a netural Ukraine. So you guys basically said nothing.

[@diogorodrigues747]

@@attilamarics3374 Ukraine was neutral before Russia invaded...

[@MikeCasey-rz2bc]

"You cannot reason people out of a position they didn't reason themselves into." -Konstantin Kisin, Russian-British satirist, podcaster, author and political commentator.

[@joek600]

and son of a thieving Russian minister

[@chezmoi42]

Kisin was quoting a sentiment attributed correctly to Jonathan Swift in 1721, and frequently cited from then to this day. Its popularity lies in its truth. ☺

[@garynicholson3050]

Good show . Well done both of you . I’m a fan of both your shows 👍

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍

[@catznjam470]

Hello Konstantin! I'm a regular listener, and I have learned so much - thanks to you and Tashkent Breakfast Club and that you all still have colleagues and family and friends in Russia. Belgorod is not far from Ukraine, geographically, and I would think they know more about the people of Ukraine than to see them as a threat to regular Russian people

[@helmutgensen4738]

Just to resonate with Jonathan "It's precisely what I wanted to hear!" I've never seen Konstantin so enthusiastic about the future of his people before. I'm so blessed to have tuned in. Big thanks!

[@neilclay5835]

Konstantin is a star.

[@dpelpal]

yeah, and a complete russian shill. Notice how he doesn't dances around the issues. He is pro russian.

[@alexbayer2365]

@@dpelpal don’t being so russophobic

[@2polster]

Still waiting for him to donate to any Ukrainian charity.. His initial excuse was Russia blocked donations to Ukraine but he's been out of Russia for over a year and hasn't mentioned donations again! Konstantin makes about $10k/month across KZbin, Buy Me Coffee and Patreon which I am sure is much more than his previous day job in Russia.

[@INSIDERUSSIA]

@@2polster i have been donating tons in the last 12 months

[@2polster]

@@INSIDERUSSIA Please name which Ukrainian Charities you have been donating to? Saying your doing something and proving it with receipts is 2 different things.

[@markfischer3626]

I've watched every broadcast Konstantin has produced since the invasion. I see everything exactly the way he does probably because of my lifetime career in many industries and my knowledge of economics. In a number of ways our working experiences overlap. I'm considerably older than he is and lived through many events he only read about. Konstantin understandably has a strong emotional involvement in these events while I'm emotionally detached from them. I had constantly urged him to get out of Russia very soon after the invasion as did many other people. For a time I was very worried about him and his family. He got out at the last possible moment. Considering the curcumstances he did extremely well. He's very smart and has had a lot of life experience handling difficult situations. I urged him to get medical help for anxiety and depression. He knows people in his situation suffer from PTSD. As I see it Russia no longer has access to the critical elements to sustain an industrial economy or society. In time every machine will break down and will be unrepairable and unreplaceable. Every industry will grind to a halt. Even the repair of a car will be impossible. I foresee famine, poverty, epidemics, anarchy, civil war, many deaths, and a return to feudal enclaves centered around farms. I don't see any other path. Another guest you might consider is Vlad Vexler if you haven't already.

[@SentecaMorvan]

See 4 videos earlier for Vlad Vexler and others

[@searchingforsanity4170]

Love it!

[@piseag458]

Fascinating interview bridging between cultures and nations,amazing guests,thanks SC!

[@tordsteiro9838]

This is one of the best podcasts you've made, Jonathan. Konstanin is absolutely excellent. Reflected, insightful, and very well conversed.

[@smcarpen]

Inside Russia is an incredibly insightful channel. I have been following this man long before he left Russia. Everyone who is interested in this conflict should follow him.

[@nathanbanks2354]

As a westerner, it's easy to look at the protests in Iran and wonder why there's nothing similar in Russia. However it's good to see people flee from military recruitment, occasionally by burning the local enlistment office, and then organize out of country, it's possible to see a different mentality for a different culture. In Russia, protesting is likely higher risk than arson because your chance of getting caught is higher and the penalty is similar. It's good to know a Russian diaspora is talking and making plans. Konstantin's vision for the end of the Russian government seems quite cogent. I'd rather see Putin voted out, but the only time that's happened Medvedev was just keeping Putin's seat warm for four years. It's difficult to imagine a coup with so many disparate forces at play, which is by Putin's design. An eventual bloody collapse seems inevitable. Hopefully we're wrong, and Russia gets a second relatively peaceful chance to become democratic.

[@michaelwaldmeier1601]

Vlad Vexler laid the groundwork for me to be convinced that your assessment is right on. The Soviet Union was dependent on the East Bloc countries for its defense and economy. With the breakup, the Russian Federation was left with fewer people and an economy that is a fraction of what it was before. Plus the ethnic Russian demographics are miserable long-term. The elites will never willingly give up power and wealth. I expect there to be a shock when the majority of people realize that the RF has the 2nd best army in Russia.

[@nathanbanks2354]

@@michaelwaldmeier1601 I like Vlad Vexler. Right now, the 2nd best army in Russia is likely the National Guard of Russia which reports directly to Putin. Bill Browder did an interview a while ago where he mentioned that this is basically 340k people reporting to Putin who could try to stop a coup, separate from the 1.1 million people in the normal army not to mention reservists and the FSB. Eventually these people will switch loyalties. Hopefully you're right, and the RF becomes the 2nd best army in Russia before too long. It was encouraging to hear that some citizens wanted to join the group that raided Belgorod. I have no doubt that the training & motivation of the raiding force was better. If I were a Russian elite, I'd be less concerned about losing my wealth and more concerned about avoiding apartment windows.

[@nick4819]

One major problem for Russians is that they don't know how to protest en masse. They always do it with small groups usually 1-10 people and the government can easily dispatch of such a small group. There are tens of thousands in Russian prison currently because most of them protested this way. Had they all done it together and actually saved each other from being dragged off....it might be a different country by now.

[@stevemcgowen]

@@nathanbanks2354 Not a fan of Vlad. Like most Ruzzian grifters, he slipped up- like they always do, and called the Russian Freedom Fighters terrorists...

[@michaelwaldmeier1601]

@@nathanbanks2354 or being poisoned which occurs now and then during Russia's history.

[@tractorpoodle]

Great to see Konstantin again. I have been following him from the beginning, and am grateful for his sharing the most difficult challenges as well as the deep insights.

[@leilagomulka5690]

I enjoy Konstantin’s insight , resolve and integrity so much.

[@thedownwardmachine]

This interview was a lot more informative than I had been expecting. I’m glad he’s created a group and I hope it achieves noble aims. I look forward to the cult deprogrammer interview, as I’ve been dealing with this lately.

[@andrewfarrington2193]

Excellent. Many thanks to both of you. To echo Sumiland below, Konstantin S. knows both sides (the West, Russia), which means he homes in on our western misconceptions very effectively. Please invite him on again in nine months, by when I am sure we will have had profound, if not earth-shaking, developments. I also hope that the Tashkent Breakfast Club flourishes, as it deserves to do.

[@_o_]

I have a cup of tea (virtually) with Konstantin at least 3 times a week as I listen to his thoughts. He's a natural radio-style vlogger and knows how to present his state of mind to an audience. The first couple months after the invasion of Ukraine he was really struggling but has his own ecosystem now, IRL and on his youtube channel. Hopefully he'll be able to return to Russia as a voice of reason after the fall of the current government. Perhaps he can help the Russian people find their new identity once their current one is exposed for what it is: a horrible fantasy of delusions and force-fed resentment against "The West".

[@ninemoonplanet]

If, and yes it's entirely plausible, the Russian elites become vicious, with the same behaviour as the mafiosi, then Konstantin and any other Russians who left would be far better off staying completely away. When the Tsar was overthrown, they murdered almost every member of the family. Shot in front of each other, dumped into a pit. That's the plausible future scenario .

[@dpelpal]

You realize this guy is pro russian and (very likely) FSB, do you not?!

[@_o_]

@@dpelpal The funny thing about conspiracy theories is that even if 5% were true (which is generous), you're absorbing 95% bullshit theories to get that 5%...and how can you tell the difference? Obviously not through critical thinking, or you'd ignore 100% knowing what the odds are. Best thing for you to do is take whatever you believe and throw it in the trash...start with Occam's razor. You're welcome.

[@masterq2.033]

Mr K , gives balanced no BS insightful commentary virtually daily. He substantiates his views with logical thought process backed by indepth knowledge and cultural understanding. His channel is worth a look in. He is also not adverse to admit if he makes an error or changes his views and explains why.

[@TheMrCougarful]

Great program. The final thoughts are chilling, but i don't see any flaw in the reasoning.

[@Aussie_Sue]

Oh my goodness, two of my favourite KZbin vloggers at the same time. Thank you Jonathan for interviewing the big man. Aussie Sue

[@hkuiper100]

I watch Konstantine regularly on his KZbin channel "Inside Russia." It's wonderful how he saw a need and started a group to meet that need. Originally he paid for the breakfast. He is very informative on what is happening in Russia, the new laws, the economy, the cultural attitudes etc. This interview is extremely interesting. Thank you. Your comment on the number of elites who were also powert elites in the USSR was interesting to hear. They certainly act like it. Russian propaganda is just crazy. So aggressive and deluded.

[@lawrencedanao7648]

Great interview. Very insightful.

[@terminusest5902]

The Belgorod raid was a huge success for a few reasons. Especially in spreading its military forces along Russia's borders. It also gave Ukraine to leave underground forces in Russia with equipment. This may include a lot of explosives and tined detonators. Allowing Russian rebels yo attack vital infrastructure. And gives Russian rebels s massive propaganda victory. Explosives' may simply gave been given to Russian rebels for them to use. Increasing turmoil within Russia. .Such as destroying power plant, oil pipelines, communications, bridges and railways. Also handing over captured weapons and military bases. Also government building and conscription facilities. Electronic observation towers along Russia's borders have also been destroyed By drones. Allowing Russian rebels to infiltrate into Russia. There are plenty of Nazis within Russia and many in powerful positions. Putin uses Nazi policies much more than Zelensky's government.

[@joek600]

What Russian rebels? A bunch of LARPers like that ex-black metal singer, that got in did a photo-op and then immediately left leaving behind a few poor guys to be blown up? What are you smoking? The only thing that PR bullshit succeeded was for 3000 territorial forces to be raised in Belgorod, and probably other areas along the border, retaliatory bombing runs and even non Z Russians to be pissed off and asking for more intensity in the attacks against Ukraine. Great success...

[@mrkeogh]

Have the Russians managed to show any images of the bodies of these "Nazis"? The vehicles looked abandoned or very lightly damaged, so the crews and those onboard could have simply melted away into the countryside, forcing Russia to dedicate considerable resources to finding them.

[@lsees5753]

Mr Fink, another hit out of the ballpark! Thank you!

[@ellaeadig263]

Konstantin is such a lovely person, I highly recommend subscribing to him, his daily streams are like catching up for a coffee with a friend.

[@richarddietzen3137]

Interesting and different viewpoints on Russia by a leading member of Russian diaspora, well explained with useful analogies.

[@JazzGuru]

What an absolutely brilliant interview! Konstantin is a boss and I follow his channel closely…

[@firedup188]

Thank you, guys!

[@ParameterGrenze]

When he started talking about his experience as an russian exile I felt great empathy for him. He is so earnest about his feelings and makes me feel more optimistic about russians being able to see past the bubble they live in.

[@sueguyan8101]

Really good video, I think that Constantin is right, it seems Russia has a very bloody future ahead , if I was a normal Russian citizen I would be would be scared of the future, after all its always the small people who suffer the most 😢😢

[@bobhundley9295]

Excellent interview - I've been following Konstantin since the start of this madness, he is a truly inspiring individual.

[@markfrancis5164]

Love Konstantine’s daily video chats and it’s great to see him on Silicon Curtain. A most unusual and insightful Russian.

[@darlene2662]

Excellent interview! This is spot on and greatly helps people to see the truth. Konstantin gives a very clear message on the current state of Russia. He is a most unusual Russian and his channel gives people a truthful picture. For those who are interested in getting an understanding of the situation of what is happening and the underlying causes you can’t get a better source. He combines the politics, culture, history, the economic situations and presents it in a format that is easy to visualize realities. His channel is Inside Russia. As usual another great insight and interview, thank you for presenting this!

[@bombie1138]

I just discovered your channel,. I have been following Mr K before the war started, and his insight has helped me navigate through this really hard time. He spent nine years here in the States so he has a good perspective on how both sides work. hopefully this war will end soon and he can get back to the walks in the parks and talking about all good things in life,. I miss that,and he does too,. Thank you @Silicon for your hard work.I'll be checking out the other interviews soon !!

[@SiliconCurtain]

👍👍👍

[@garthmckeil9539]

Thank you once again for an excellent conversation. I would enjoy seeing you and Konstantin getting together monthly as events progress in and around Russia.

[@gongoro777]

Excellent interview.

[@greenmetal514]

Great conversation, thanks you to

[@bradgardner4299]

The language arguments about who belongs to the country that the individual speaks is outrageous!! I'm an Australian and speak English as my main language. It certainly doesn't mean I'm English by far. Actually our accent is pretty cool?! I'm Australian who speaks English and will never, ever be anything else!

[@elschekorf4951]

Your explanation of the difference between American and Russian dream must be an eye opener for many Westerners.

[@timothycote236]

What a fantastic conversation. I applaud Knostantin and his group efforts. I would love to see all this come to an end. For Russia to become a comfortable neighbor. It will be some time in the future with all that has happened.

[@janesoole703]

Just listened again 23/7 - beginning to end - I've learnt so much. Thank you both very much. Keep these interviews going Jonathan., please. It's like doing another degree! Jane Soole (aged 79!), Weymouth, Dorset, England