Stalin’s voice
The Interpreter Vladimir Pavlov
Deutsche Fassung
Abstract
In 1939, Viacheslav Molotov reformed the Soviet Union’s foreign service. He wanted a professional apparatus with young employees who were loyal to the party line. One of the new diplomats was Vladimir Pavlov. He rose to become one of Stalin’s important interpreters and was regarded as his “favourite son”. After the dictator’s death, Pavlov fell out of favour. The evolution of Soviet diplomacy and the role of the interpreter are mirrored in Pavlov’s career. It offers glimpses into Stalin and Molotov’s circle as well as its dealings with the Allies.
(Osteuropa 4/2012, pp. 69–80)