'Putin's not as strong as he appears, knows Ukraine war a mistake': Russia's ex-PM

Former Russian prime minister Mikhail Kasyanov asserts that President Vladimir Putin is not as formidable as he seems, acknowledging the Ukrainian war to be a blunder. Kasyanov, who served as Russia’s premier from 2000 to 2004, believes that Putin is aware of the mistake but refuses to admit it. The ex-PM attributes Putin's tenacity to the high oil prices stemming from the US-Iran conflict and the rifts between the US and Europe concerning Russia.

Kasyanov warns that the upcoming winter could be particularly harsh for Ukraine, urging Western powers to maintain unity and provide Kyiv with Patriot missile interceptors. He emphasizes that millions of Russians likely support the war, as evidenced by Putin's ruling party's record supermajority in recent elections. Kasyanov, currently residing in exile in Riga, claims that fear dominates the ruling class and that an overwhelming majority of elite members desire the war's conclusion.

However, he states that views differ on how to achieve this, with some aiming for victory, others seeking Putin's downfall, and others simply desiring the fighting to cease. Ordinary Russians, according to Kasyanov, show no signs of revolt despite casualties and rising food prices, as they have grown accustomed to high inflation over the past three decades.

He describes Russia as "practically totalitarian" and highlights the presence of fatalism, hostility, and tension within society. Kasyanov urges Western nations not to be intimidated by Putin, asserting that Putin fears the nuclear button more than many Europeans do. He believes Putin's true objective is to secure respect from Europe and force them to concede to Russia's demands.