The article, authored by a professor of international relations, delves into the ways personal beliefs, desires, and insecurities of authoritarian leaders can disrupt national interests and objectives. It emphasizes that the more centralized the power becomes, the more likely these personal factors will prevail over rational policies. This dynamic is currently observed in China, where President Xi Jinping's recent purges of high-ranking officials within the People's Liberation Army illustrate the extent of his paranoia and tendency to prioritize personal security over state stability.

The situation is particularly poignant in Russia, where President Vladimir Putin's decision to launch the large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 starkly demonstrates this tension. Just a few years earlier, Russia was considered a burgeoning global power, especially in fintech, with state-owned Sberbank gaining recognition as one of the strongest banking brands worldwide. The article reflects on how swiftly Russia's image has deteriorated under Putin's leadership, resulting in a prolonged and damaging conflict that has also revealed deep-seated vulnerabilities within the Russian state itself.

The implications of such leadership styles extend beyond Russia and China, as the author draws parallels with the United States. This analysis suggests that even in more democratic contexts, leaders' personal whims can lead to foreign policy decisions that may not align with broader national interests. The article ultimately serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of authoritarian regimes and the personal inclinations that can significantly affect global politics.