Edward Slavsquat is a moniker sometimes used by Riley Waggaman, an American writer and journalist who has lived in Russia for close to a decade.

He has contributed to many websites, including Anti-Empire, Russian Faith, Brownstone Institute, Unlimited Hangout, and Geopolitics & Empire. He worked for Press TV, Russia Insider, and RT before going solo.

In this interview, Waggaman discusses his decade-long experiences in Russia, particularly focusing on media, censorship, and political climate. Waggamann touches on Russia's approach to climate change, digital IDs, and CBDCs, while also providing insights into the impact of the Ukraine conflict on both Russian society and broader geopolitics. He concludes by reflecting on the surreal and challenging times but emphasizes finding value in everyday life and personal fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction to Riley Waggamann's Journey in Russia

01:15 Navigating Free Speech and Censorship in Russia

02:57 Riley's Podcasting Experience and Audience

04:25 Russia's Stance on Climate Change

08:13 Media Landscape in Russia

17:10 Digital Payments and Biometric Technology in Russia

21:44 Central Bank Digital Currency and Economic Challenges

29:26 Public Perception of the Ukraine Conflict

30:56 Local Indifference and Global ESG Trends

31:22 Russia's ESG Initiatives and Global Influence

34:29 UN Consensus and Russia's Stance

35:36 C40 Cities and Russia's Global Position

40:17 Putin's Image and Russian Politics

45:41 The Ukraine Conflict: Perspectives and Challenges

49:01 The Economics of War and Global Implications

57:49 Reflections on War and Hope for the Future

https://edwardslavsquat.substack.com/

https://x.com/RileyWaggaman

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