Putin made Russia's billionaires his dogs: they do what he says, or else. America's billionaires are oligarchs because government does what they say.
Putin is an autocrat but if you want to argue Russia is an oligarchy, then the oligarchs are FSB, not billionaires.
Quote Tweet
“We don’t call *our* billionaires oligarchs! Why the distinction for Russians?”
It’s a good question, and the distinction is fair.
Russian oligarchs aren’t just rich. They’re enmeshed with the Kremlin.
Loyalty has been the only way for them to stay rich and keep out of jail.
Show this thread
3
6
10
