Putin is in free fall
The Russian president suffered a major setback for his image at Kursk. The discreet criticism of the president is growing.
Official sources consulted by the independent press, Western experts and Russian military bloggers all agree that it will still take Moscow months to drive all Ukrainian troops away from its territory.
The bold Ukrainian operation has overshadowed the obvious Russian advances in the Donbas, where Ukrainian troops are clearly in retreat. There's strong speculation of another Kiev attack in another Russian territory.
According to the Centre for Public Opinion Research, close to the Kremlin, Putin's image has suffered its biggest setback since the start of the so-called “special” military operation over two and a half years ago.
Discontent is growing. Clearly, there are still some quiet critics of the authoritarian president. For example, many of those interviewed would like Putin to look after the interests of his citizens.
In particular, they see a need for better management of social and economic problems within the country (83%), negotiation of a peace treaty with Ukraine including reciprocal concessions (61%) and restoration of relations with Western countries (43%).
(MH with Ambar/Source: X/Photo: Pixabay)