1. a specialist in the study of Soviet or Russian politics, government, and policy, especially one who analyzes the Kremlin's decision-making and leadership
Usage: originally used during the Cold War to describe analysts of Soviet politics; can be applied to contemporary analysts of Russian government

Examples

• The kremlinologist warned that tensions between the two factions within the government were escalating.
• During the Cold War, kremlinologists tried to interpret every statement from Soviet leaders.
• As a kremlinologist, she spent decades studying the inner workings of Russian politics.
• The think tank hired several kremlinologists to assess the new policy direction.
• Kremlinologists have long debated the true power structure within the Russian government.