Investigative book on Vladimir Putin wins French literary prize

The investigative book ‘The Tsar in Propria Persona: How Vladimir Putin Deceived Us All’ has won the inaugural Prix Strasbourg in France. Authored by exiled Russian journalists Roman Badanin and Mikhail Rubin, the work is based on over two decades of reporting and hundreds of interviews with witnesses, some of whom reportedly disappeared under tragic circumstances.

The book examines the rise of Vladimir Putin from a former intelligence operative to the leader of Russia, contrasting his public image as a defender of traditional values with the realities of his private life and administration. The authors, who founded the independent media outlet Proekt, fled Russia due to intense political pressure and currently reside in the United States.

The award is presented by the EBRA regional newspaper group and Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale, including a cash prize of 20,000 euros. The book is scheduled for publication in France next month by Les Arènes.