Blowing Up Russia: The Secret Plot to Bring Back KGB Terror

Detailed Summary of the Book

Set against the backdrop of a Russia struggling to redefine itself after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, "Blowing Up Russia" delves deep into a series of devastating apartment bombings that rocked the nation in 1999. These tragic events, which claimed the lives of hundreds of innocent civilians, serve as the focal point of Litvinenko and Felshtinsky's investigation. The authors present a compelling argument that these attacks were not the work of external terrorists but orchestrated by the Russian government itself, under the direction of the FSB.

The book meticulously examines the evidence, providing a detailed account of the events leading up to the bombings and the subsequent political machinations. Litvinenko and Felshtinsky draw upon their insider knowledge and extensive research to challenge the official narrative, suggesting that the bombings were a pretext to galvanize public fear, justify a brutal war in Chechnya, and facilitate Vladimir Putin's rise to power. Through a combination of investigative journalism and personal anecdotes, the authors paint a chilling portrait of a government willing to sacrifice its citizens for political gain.

Key Takeaways

• The book posits that the FSB orchestrated the 1999 apartment bombings to manipulate political power dynamics in Russia.
• It provides insight into the resurgence of the security services' influence in post-Soviet Russia.
• The authors argue that the Russian state's actions highlight a broader strategy of using terror tactics to consolidate power.
• "Blowing Up Russia" serves as a stark warning about the dangers of unchecked state power and manipulation.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"The FSB realized that only terrorist attacks of unimaginable horror and cruelty could allow government to declare a state of emergency and consolidate power."

"We must understand that the FSB’s sphere of influence has never been particularly concerned with law or legality."

Why This Book Matters

"Blowing Up Russia" is not merely a work of investigative journalism; it is a crucial document highlighting the intersection of power, terror, and politics. In an era where state-sponsored violence and misinformation are prevalent, the book offers invaluable insights into the mechanisms of political manipulation and control. The courage and determination of Litvinenko and Felshtinsky to expose these dark truths serve as a testament to the enduring importance of speaking truth to power, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the hidden forces shaping modern geopolitics.