Russian President Vladimir Putin’s handling of the war in Ukraine is causing discontent among high-ranking officials.
A recent report by Meduza, a Russian independent media outlet, says that many members of Russia‘s political elite are disappointed with Putin’s actions. They had hoped the war would end in 2024. The main reason for their disappointment is the state of the country’s economy.
According to sources close to Putin’s administration and one senator, the economic situation is a major point of tension. One source said: “The main emotion is disappointment… We expected the war to end, for the fighting to end.”
Many officials are frustrated that the war has not ended despite their expectations. They feel that Russia is being punished with more sanctions instead of peace.
Recently, Russia suffered one of its most costly defeats in Ukraine. The country had to shut down gas transit through Ukrainian territory due to economic and diplomatic pressure from Kyiv. Sources said this was a major blow to Russia’s economy.
Some officials are also frustrated that Putin has not taken steps to put Russia on a full war footing, such as launching another round of mobilization. They feel that the president is more interested in fighting than finding a peaceful solution.
As the war in Ukraine approaches its third anniversary, both sides face increasing economic and demographic pressures. Experts warn that Russian losses in Ukraine could lead to a significant decline in Russia’s population by the end of the century.
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