Moscow: In a recent interview on the television program “Legend” broadcast by RTVI, Russian writer and public figure Alexander Prokhanov made a bold declaration, likening President Vladimir Putin to “Russia’s fifth Stalin”. Prokhanov’s comparison emphasizes Putin’s role in what he describes as the restoration of Russian power and influence on the global stage.
The ‘Fifth Stalin’ and Historical Parallels
Prokhanov explained his reasoning by drawing parallels between Putin and four other significant figures in Russian history who, in his view, played critical roles in shaping the nation’s destiny. He identified these figures as “Stalins” for their contributions to Russia’s consolidation and expansion of power.
- Vladimir the Great was named the “first Stalin” for Christianizing Kievan Rus’ in the 10th century, laying the foundation for Russian spiritual and cultural identity.
- Ivan the Terrible, the “second Stalin”, is known for centralizing power and expanding Russian territories in the 16th century, establishing the Tsardom of Russia.
- Peter the Great, labeled the “third Stalin”, modernized Russia and turned it into a significant European power in the early 18th century, pushing forward sweeping reforms in the military, government, and culture.
- Joseph Stalin, regarded by Prokhanov as the “fourth Stalin”, led the Soviet Union through World War II and transformed it into a global superpower. Despite his brutal policies, Stalin’s impact on Soviet and world history was undeniable.
Prokhanov argued that Putin now fills this role as the “fifth Stalin” by restoring Russia’s prominence and reshaping its geopolitical stance in the post-Soviet world.
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Controversial Legacy of Joseph Stalin
While Prokhanov’s depiction of Joseph Stalin as a leader who strengthened Russia may resonate with some in Russia, Stalin’s legacy is overwhelmingly negative in the West. Although he was instrumental in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II, Stalin is widely remembered for his harsh and oppressive regime.
His rule was marked by mass repression, political purges, forced labor camps (Gulags), and policies that caused widespread famine and suffering. Millions of people, including political opponents, military leaders, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens, were executed, imprisoned, or exiled during his reign.
Stalin’s forced collectivization of agriculture, particularly the Holodomor in Ukraine, resulted in the deaths of millions from starvation and remains one of the darkest chapters of Soviet history.
