Episode Description:

In this episode, we delve into the recent mutiny staged by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close ally of Vladimir Putin, and its implications for the Kremlin. Prigozhin's uprising, fueled by a lack of ammunition for his mercenaries, initially targeted Moscow but quickly shifted to Belarus after striking a deal. The episode raises questions about Putin's standing and the state of the Russian government. Despite the mutiny, Prigozhin's business empire, including Wagner Group and the troll factory, remains intact. Putin's decision not to go after Prigozhin or other officials involved in the uprising is likely an attempt to maintain support within his base. However, the mutiny has exposed the decay of the Russian state and the fragility of Putin's support. While the rifts in the Kremlin may not immediately impact Russian fighting effectiveness, a breakthrough by Ukraine could exacerbate the cracks and have significant political consequences.

Shifting gears, we also discuss the devastating monsoon rains in India, which have caused floods and landslides in the northern parts of the country. These rains have been unusually intense, with some areas experiencing rainfall 50% greater than normal. The government's struggle to adapt to the worsening rains highlights the challenges posed by climate change. While it is not yet clear if climate change is the direct cause of this year's record-breaking rainfall, it may be increasing the likelihood of extreme monsoon events.

Lastly, we explore the release of two highly anticipated movies, "Oppenheimer" and "Barbie," and the choice they offer between realism and escapism. "Oppenheimer," directed by Christopher Nolan, is a serious biographical drama that delves into the life of the father of the atomic bomb. On the other hand, "Barbie," directed by Greta Gerwig, provides pure escapism and pleasure through its comedy genre. Given the current geopolitical climate, audiences tend to gravitate towards escapism during times of turmoil, making "Barbie" potentially more popular. Tune in to this episode as we delve into these diverse topics and their implications.

It has been a month since the head of the Wagner group led a march on Moscow. Although it failed, Putin appears considerably weaker. What does this mean for outcomes on the battlefield? India is facing record-breaking rainfall as monsoon seasons continue to worsen. The government’s response has fallen short (12:29). And, the highly-anticipated Barbie and Oppenheimer films hit cinemas (18:04).

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