In the Russian system, alliances of business oligarchs, generals, governors, intelligence officers and oil company chiefs compete for power and money. Mr. Putin, rather than the courts, arbitrates these disputes, preventing escalation. Mr. Ulyukayev, who is serving an eight-year sentence in a penal colony, says the charge was trumped up. The changes announced by Mr. Putin seem designed to maintain his perch as the arbiter of these disputes. Mr. Putin suggested a measure to prohibit enforcement of treaty obligations if they violate Russia’s Constitution.

Source: New York Times January 17, 2020 20:48 UTC