The Economist: Putin Is Losing Control Of Russia

• 7.05.2026, 8:42

There is growing dissatisfaction with the head of the Kremlin.

Part of the Russian political and official elite has begun to realize that Vladimir Putin's actions have brought the country to a dead end, and the further way out of the situation remains unclear. A former senior Russian government official told The Economist on condition of anonymity.

The author notes that the current authoritarian system in Russia is able to persist for a long time thanks to fear and repressive apparatus. However, dissatisfaction with the Kremlin's policy is gradually growing within the society and among the elites.

The reasons include high losses of the Russian army in the war against Ukraine, despite the fact that the authorities continue to call what is happening a "special military operation". In addition, discontent is growing among big business: Russian oligarchs are concerned about the confiscation of assets and redistribution of property, so they are interested in stability.

Another reason is the decrease in Russia's international influence after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In the opinion of the author of the article, economic and technological capabilities are of key importance in the modern world, in which Moscow is inferior to the leading powers.

An increase in state interference in the private life of citizens and restrictions on rights and freedoms is also criticized. Interruptions and restrictions on mobile Internet are cited as an example.

The publication emphasizes that the current political regime in Russia can be maintained as long as Vladimir Putin remains in power. However, after his departure, the system, according to the author of the material, will inevitably face collapse - the only question is the timing.