Political backdrop in Russia is important context in St. Petersburg subway blast, researcher says


Mon, 04/03/2017

author

George Diepenbrock

LAWRENCE — The recent political backdrop in Russia, including large protests, and its relationship with neighboring countries will be an important context in any response to Monday's subway explosion in St. Petersburg, according to a University of Kansas researcher of Russian foreign policy.

According to national news reports, 11 people died and dozens more were injured in a blast on the Russia city's metro system, and Russian authorities have described it as a terrorist attack.

Mariya Omelicheva, associate professor of political science, is available to discuss issues surrounding the blast and the government's response. Omelicheva's broad research focuses on international relations, security policy, state security and human rights, and Russian foreign policy. She has written several recent articles on Russian politics and foreign policy and on issues surrounding Islamic radicalization in Central Asia.

"It will be important to keep an eye on the official narrative levying charges on any particular terrorist organizations and explaining the nature of the attack," Omelicheva said. "It is important to remember that this act of violence has occurred on the backdrop of mass protests across Russia against the government’s corruption. The Putin administration did not provide any official response to the public’s demands. It is equally important that Putin has been a strong advocate for a security narrative portending the threat of Islamist radicalization."

She said the recent economic crisis in Russia compelled Putin to reduce federal funds supporting the regional security apparatus, so it's possible Russia could see an increase in crime and violence in years to come, which has likely diminished law enforcement's ability to prevent these types of attacks.

To arrange an interview with Omelicheva, contact George Diepenbrock at 785-864-8853 or gdiepenbrock@ku.edu.

Mon, 04/03/2017

author

George Diepenbrock

Media Contacts

George Diepenbrock

KU News Service

785-864-8853