Last week in Moscow, black smoke filled the sky as Ukrainian drones conducted a significant attack on the Russian capital, marking the largest drone assault since the start of Russia’s invasion in 2022. The assault led to flight disruptions and the ignition of a major oil refinery on the city’s outskirts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Moscow would face consequences if Ukraine suffered. The strikes have brought the war closer to Russians, causing disruption and fear. Experts suggest that prolonged attacks could heighten domestic worries, potentially impacting President Vladimir Putin’s control or prompting him to escalate the conflict further.
Historian Anne Applebaum highlighted the impact of the drone assaults on Muscovites, stating that it revealed the proximity of the war and the challenges Russia faces. She noted that such attacks could shift the mood among influential figures who influence Putin’s decisions. Despite the severity of the attacks, their images were not broadcast on Russian news channels, and residents were not alerted.
In response to the strikes, some Kremlin supporters criticized individuals sharing footage of the attacks, labeling them as traitors. Concerns and anxiety persist among affected communities, with individuals feeling unprotected and neglected by authorities. Reports indicate a decline in Putin’s approval ratings amid ongoing military strikes on Russian soil.
Amidst the criticism, some Russian nationalists have voiced discontent with Putin’s handling of the war. However, experts caution that opposing Putin does not necessarily equate to opposing the war itself. Exiled figures like Mikhail Khodorkovsky believe that a decline in public support for the war could unsettle Putin, potentially leading to increased reliance on security forces. The risk of Putin resorting to more extreme measures, including mass violence, remains a concern as discontent grows.
As the conflict continues, Putin faces challenges managing both domestic unrest and the ongoing war. Experts suggest that Putin’s actions could become more desperate and aggressive, potentially creating a humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Despite being wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes, Putin’s response to mounting pressure remains uncertain.