In a recent discussion regarding Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, Vadim Denisenko, head of the ‘Business Capital’ analytical center, noted that President Putin’s previous justifications for his actions have dissipated. Denisenko indicated that Putin would only justify his actions if he believed it could impact his personal political image among other countries. However, he argues that the red lines have shifted so significantly that they no longer exist.
According to expert Gudkov, Putin has shifted from a sense of confidence to an overwhelming obsession with war. He understands that his political survival is at stake; losing this conflict could lead to his downfall. “He [Putin] is all-in because he wants to force Ukraine into capitulation,” Gudkov stated.
Gudkov emphasized that Putin’s main goal is to compel Ukraine to surrender, leaving no reason for him to maintain any semblance of justification or to protect his image.
