The Bunker – News without the nonsense Putin’s position — Why Russia isn't shifting on Ukraine
Jan 8, 2026
Ian Garner, a historian and author specializing in Russian propaganda, joins to dissect Vladimir Putin's unwavering stance on the war in Ukraine. Garner reveals how Kremlin rhetoric remains unchanged despite staggering losses. He highlights the complexities of public sentiment and ongoing propaganda within Russia. The discussion includes the pitfalls of current peace talks, the Kremlin's narrative manipulation, and the dangers of traumatized soldiers returning home. Garner emphasizes the need for direct engagement between Russia and Ukraine to foster genuine peace.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Kremlin Maintains Strategic Continuity
- The Kremlin shows no fundamental change in aims or behaviour despite peace-talk spectacle.
- Putin's New Year address reinforced continuity: keep fighting and maintain the same policies.
Propaganda Frames War As Attrition And Civilizational Fight
- Russian propaganda frames the conflict as a war of attrition and a civilizational struggle with the West.
- That narrative aims to explain shortages and justify prolonged fighting to the Russian public.
Recruitment Persists Amid Growing War Fatigue
- Public fatigue is rising but recruitment targets are still being met or exceeded.
- Material incentives and enlistment bonuses keep people signing up despite war-weariness.
