Russian MP condemns Kremlin over war costs, warning of post‑war crisis for Putin

Communist Party Duma deputy Vyacheslav Marchenko publicly criticised President Vladimir Putin’s leadership, accusing the Kremlin of deepening the gap between ordinary citizens and the elite, allowing utility fees to rise while money funds yachts and foreign assets, and failing to protect Russian cities from cross‑border drone attacks. He warned that the “special military operation” in Ukraine could trigger a major social explosion unless a clear, publicly‑announced plan to end the war is adopted. Other parliamentarians have echoed concerns that Russia’s war‑driven economy cannot be sustained.

Analysts also note that an end to the conflict could pose a severe test for Putin’s regime. The return of hundreds of thousands of veterans, a war‑dependent economy, unresolved succession questions and the risk of an “Afghanistan‑syndrome” of disillusioned soldiers could destabilise the country. The Kremlin is preparing veteran programmes and seeking to keep veteran organisations under state control, but fears remain that unmet expectations for social security and influence could fuel unrest.

Together, the parliamentary criticism and the broader strategic analysis highlight mounting internal pressures on Russia’s leadership as the war continues.