Prompt Title: Putin as Warlord.

This conversation explores the concept of warlord powers and their relationship to sovereign nations, focusing on Vladimir Putin's regime in Russia as a case study. We discuss the ways in which warlord powers attempt to legitimize themselves, the mechanisms they use to control their population, and the dangers they pose to free democracies. We examine the importance of power sharing in protecting democratic institutions and preventing the rise of strong men, including the role of checks and balances, a free press, and civil society. We also discuss the ways in which warlord nations attempt to undermine free democracies, including through propaganda and amplifying partisan divides. Ultimately, we conclude that securing democracy against tyranny requires a culture of transparency, accountability, and respect for democratic norms and institutions.