Vladimir Putin reportedly fears consequences for Ukraine war failure

Reports indicate that Vladimir Putin may feel trapped by his own power system amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to The Economist, the Russian leader has reportedly expressed fears for his life to his inner circle, allegedly stating, “They will hang me,” should he fail to achieve his minimum objectives, such as the full conquest of the Donbas.

This perceived vulnerability comes as the Russian population faces economic consequences and domestic drone attacks. The report also notes a pattern of suspicious deaths among high-ranking Russian officials and managers, often officially labeled as accidents or suicides.

In diplomatic developments, Putin has engaged in provocative behavior toward the United States. He reportedly made negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner wait for several hours in Moscow before receiving them. Amidst these tensions, Putin has continued domestic activities, including inaugurating a new metro line in Moscow and an oil terminal in Siberia via video link.