Putin willing to accept Russia's economic hardship as he pursues victory in war of attrition – ISW

Vladimir Putin appears to accept growing economic hardship for Russians, including those in Moscow and St. Petersburg, as he seeks victory in the protracted Ukraine conflict, according to the ISW. The Russian president believes Russia can win through attrition, outlasting both Ukraine's defense capabilities and Western support for Kyiv.

In an interview, Putin acknowledged the impact of Ukrainian long-range strikes on Russia’s fuel infrastructure and the need to bolster air defenses. Alexander Shokhin, head of the Russian Industrialists and Entrepreneurs union, reported that Ukrainian drone strikes have cut Russia’s oil refining output by 25-30% and reduced production of fertilizers and chemicals.

Strikes on logistics infrastructure, including Wildberries facilities, have impacted both domestic and export markets. Putin noted the necessity to enhance Russia’s air defense systems and foster collaboration between state and private sectors. Analysts interpreted his remarks as recognizing Russia's vulnerability to Ukrainian strikes.

Moscow recently imposed gasoline sales restrictions for the second time this summer, despite efforts to supply the city by reallocating fuel. On Aug. 16, Ukraine reported disabling seven out of ten major Wildberries logistics centers, causing an estimated $9.5 billion to $11.93 billion in losses. ISW analysts stated that Russia's advance slowed in July, with gains of 37.85 square kilometers, or an average of 1.22 per day.

A July poll showed 65.1% of respondents supported Putin's performance, a decline to the lowest level since 2021.