Dissatisfaction Is Growing Among Russians
- 1.09.2026, 16:25
The reality within Russia is becoming increasingly difficult to reconcile with the Kremlin's usual narrative.
Putin is increasingly referring to the war in Ukraine as Russia’s struggle against an external threat; however, behind this rhetoric may lie the Kremlin’s growing anxiety over the deteriorating situation at home. Against the backdrop of Ukrainian drone strikes on oil infrastructure and the Russian economy, Moscow fears that the public’s tacit acceptance of the war is waning, writes National Security Journal.
At a meeting with students and faculty Putin compared Russia to a polar bear, which is allegedly being hunted by killer whales—NATO countries and other allies of Ukraine. “They attack in a pack and tear them to pieces,” he said, explaining the reasons for the war in this way.
However, the reality inside Russia is becoming increasingly difficult to reconcile with the Kremlin’s usual narrative. Ukrainian strikes have affected oil refining and e-commerce, while internet restrictions imposed by Russian authorities are altering daily life even more drastically.
According to the independent Levada Center, 57% of Russians describe the current situation as “tense.” People attribute their anxiety to the war, casualties, possible mobilization, drone attacks, and a lack of clarity about the future.
“Deep strikes by Ukrainian drones on oil refineries and online retailers have shattered the illusion of normal life,” the publication writes.
In recent weeks, Putin has been pondering how to change the situation. Those close to him believe that a new escalation could be one possible response.
At the same time, the Russian army is bogged down in Ukraine, and strikes against key industries are gradually increasing pressure on the economy. Putin publicly states that Russia “will only move forward,” but, according to sources, the Kremlin fears the war will end without significant results.
“They’ll hang me,” — Putin told his inner circle, speculating on the public’s possible reaction if the war ends without achieving its stated goals.
Against this backdrop, the Kremlin’s desire to secure at least a symbolic victory could make the war’s further course even more dangerous.