Is this Russian soft power or heavy-handed influence?

There is a saying that it is better to remain silent and let people think you are uninformed than to speak and remove all doubt. Evgeny Primakov, head of Rossotrudnichestvo, recently chose to speak.

In an interview with reporters, Primakov spoke proudly about the opening of the "Russian Houses" in Africa, noting the involvement of a private military company and the subsequent transition of some of its employees to civil service roles.

His comments have raised questions about recruitment practices and the organization’s methods, particularly in the context of the closure of the Russian House in Baku. Observers note that such statements may affect perceptions of Rossotrudnichestvo and its leadership.

In Moscow, there is now increased attention to Primakov’s professional performance, and this interview has sparked discussion about the direction of his career and the organization he represents.