Ex-PM says Putin cannot admit ‘mistake’ over Ukraine as he bets on war of attrition
PARIS, Oct 4 — Despite growing economic trouble and rising unease among ordinary Russians and the elite, President...
In an interview with AFP, Mikhail Kasyanov, Russia's former prime minister from 2000 to 2004, stated that President Vladimir Putin is not prepared to end the war in Ukraine. Kasyanov, now living in exile in Riga, believes Putin understands he made a mistake in invading Ukraine but will continue the war. He cited Putin's belief in security service reports that Ukraine was weak as the reason for his continued aggression.
Kasyanov also mentioned that Putin is benefiting from high oil prices due to the US-Iran conflict and differences between the US and Europe regarding Ukraine. He warned that the coming winter could be especially harsh for Ukraine and urged Western nations to apply psychological pressure on the Kremlin. Kasyanov noted that the Russian ruling class is fearful of the situation but sees no grounds for a revolt among ordinary Russians, who have become accustomed to high inflation.
He described Russia as "practically totalitarian" and warned Western countries against being intimidated by Putin's threats, stating that Putin is a "highly calculating cynic" more concerned with gaining respect than engaging in open warfare with Europe.
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