Judging Freedom Dr. Gilbert Doctorow : Will Putin Change Tactics?
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Oct 22, 2025 Dr. Gilbert Doctorow, a seasoned political analyst on Russian and European affairs, joins to discuss the pressures Putin faces amid the war. He highlights the differing sentiments in Moscow versus St. Petersburg, detailing safety disruptions from drone attacks and internet outages. Doctorow reveals that while ordinary Russians desire a swift end to the conflict, they don't necessarily blame Putin. He delves into escalating rhetoric from Kremlin figures and explores the implications of US weapon transfers for future tactics.
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Transport And Internet Disruptions In Petersburg
- Gilbert Doctorow described GPS and mobile internet outages in St. Petersburg caused by drone defenses disrupting taxis and municipal services.
- He recounted that outages hindered ATMs, card payments, and required in-person registration with authorities, impacting daily life.
Home Front Becoming A War Zone
- Doctorow argues the domestic front has become a war zone as internet shutdowns now occur every few days rather than rarely.
- He links these outages to defensive measures against Ukrainian drones that now regularly disrupt civilian systems.
Uneven Supermarket Changes Observed
- Doctorow surveyed supermarkets in St. Petersburg and found lower-end stores with reduced fresh produce and assortment since May.
- He noted surprising price drops in some upscale items like farmed trout and sea bream in higher-end stores.