The Evolution of Russian Communism and the National Bolsheviks

Russian communism, once a potent force for international change, has seen significant shifts and transformations in recent decades.
Many argue that these changes reflect a fundamental break from Marxist principles towards a more nationalist and authoritarian political structure, much like the National Bolshevik vision.

Introduction to National Bolshevism

National Bolshevism, an ideology distinct from Marxism, has been a source of both fascination and controversy within Russia. Unlike communist doctrine, which advocates for internationalism and the overcoming of national interests, National Bolshevism champions a form of nationalism intertwined with revolutionary ideals.
This combination often leads to a rejection of traditional communist parties that have shown more support for internationalism.

The Fate of the National Bolshevik Party

The National Bolshevik Party, a group that once held significant prominence within Russian politics, is now largely defunct. It was banned in Russia and was initially seen as a gathering place for disenchanted youth and scandalous writers, most notably Eduard Limonov.
Today, the scene of Russian communism is dominated by the CPRF (Communist Party of the Russian Federation), which is the sole party with significant influence and political leverage.

The Communist Elite and the Rise of Putin

The transition from the USSR to modern Russia saw the communist elite shift alliances to the burgeoning oligarchy. Vladimir Putin, who came from the KGB and later FSB, positioned himself as a strong leader capable of combining state control and capitalist interests.
Under Putin's leadership, the remnants of Soviet rhetoric and control have persisted, merged with Orthodox Christianity, and an exacerbated form of Russian nationalism. Putinism, as this hybrid ideology is known, continues to exploit fears of Western influence, economic subservience, and homosexuality.

The Communist Party of Russia and Putinism

The Communist Party of Russia has adapted to the Putinist regime, aligning itself with the authoritarian nature of the state, the glorification of Soviet past and the rigid nationalism.
While leaving behind traditional communist ideals, it has maintained a common ground with Putinism in terms of authoritarian control and the idea that individual lives may be sacrificed for greater national and historical necessity, in line with Marxist theory.

The Future of Russian Communism

As Russia moves towards what some see as a fascist totalitarian state, the situation for communists appears grim. The enforced militarization of society, loss of freedoms, and potential totalitarism raise serious questions about the future of communist ideology in Russia.
It is clear that the National Bolsheviks and the traditional communists share a common disdain for the West and a willingness to use authoritarian measures to maintain power.

Orwell's warnings about 1984 serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that such a society poses to individual freedom and human rights.
As Russia continues to evolve, the Communist Party and other like-minded groups must decide whether to adapt further or risk obsolescence in the face of an increasingly totalitarian state.