Leon Aron Dissects Putin's Alternatives in his Quest to Hold on to Power
Op-Ed Contributor to the New York Times Leon Aron insists Russia’s premiership does not provide Mr. Putin access to wide-ranging presidential powers, and explores Putin’s prospects of retaining the presidential post. On the base of Putin’s contradictory record, neither President Bush nor White house contenders would be able to formulate a coherent Russia policy based on predictions. In order to control elections, the economy, and state enterprises, Putin must either become acting president if his likely successor Viktor Zukhov were to defect, impose Martial Law temporarily or pass a law providing for unlimited Presidential terms. The last would have tremendous implications, aligning Russia with Belarus and Kazakhastan.
The New York Times, October 25, 2007
