I remember watching segments on the protest from RT (Russia Today), which were very anti-law enforcement and pro-protest. It was obvious to me that Putin didn't want that pipeline completed. There are reliable reports that Russia was a major player in funding anti-pipeline movements in many places. Putin was, I think, very keen to discourage energy production that would compete with Russian oil and gas.
I remember watching segments on the protest from RT (Russia Today), which were very anti-law enforcement and pro-protest. It was obvious to me that Putin didn't want that pipeline completed. There are reliable reports that Russia was a major player in funding anti-pipeline movements in many places. Putin was, I think, very keen to discourage energy production that would compete with Russian oil and gas.
I wouldn't doubt that one bit. There was evidence of Russian funding I think, and I mention it briefly in the book.