A former media consultant to the Kremlin is due to visit Moray to dispel the myth that Russia is “all about Vladimir Putin”.
In a career spanning four decades, Angus Roxburgh has advised the leaders of the superpower, reported on its actions, been pursued by the KGB and been ejected from the country.
Now the journalist and author has written down his experiences in the country, which have included meeting four successive presidents but also the “warm and friendly” locals.
He said: “The picture that people often get in the media at the moment, which is for good reasons, is quite focused – you see Putin and what’s happening in Syria and Ukraine and not much else.
“For me, having had such a close relationship with the country, I think it needs more context. The language and culture is some of the most fascinating you’ll find.”
Mr Roxburgh’s passion for the Russian language started while listening to radio broadcasts from behind the Iron Curtain while he was a child.
He began learning words and phrases after unearthing textbooks while at school in Aberdeenshire, eventually studying it at Aberdeen University.
The former Moscow correspondent for the BBC will be at Elgin Library next week – and believes people may be surprised by his experiences.
He said: “During the Soviet era there was a perception that it was a hard place, but in the homes there was an empathy and comradeship that was some of the warmest I’ve seen. “
Mr Roxburgh will be talking about his new book, Moscow Calling, on Monday from 7pm. Entry £5.
