The Intelligence from The Economist Don’t mention the war: Russia’s internal tensions
Jan 1, 2025
Arkady Ostrovsky, Russia editor for The Economist, dives into the complex sentiments surrounding Putin’s war in Ukraine, revealing a populace torn between loyalty and dissatisfaction. He discusses how economic struggles shape public opinion and the lack of desire for change. Joining him is Matthew Holhouse, who offers a glimpse into the tumultuous landscape of British politics in 2025, characterized by Labour's challenges despite their majority. They also explore the intriguing influence of nicknames in politics and branding, showing how perceptions evolve.
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Russian Sentiment on War
- Most Russians desire a return to normalcy, but this seems unattainable due to the war's impact.
- A passive majority complies with the regime despite not understanding or supporting the war's aims.
Fragile Political Landscape
- Russia's current political climate is fragile, with potential for rapid, unforeseen change.
- A galvanizing leader could exploit the widespread desire for normalcy and potentially shift the power balance.
UK Political Fragmentation
- The UK's political landscape is fragmenting, with voter support spreading across smaller parties.
- This presents challenges for the two-party system and could lead to calls for electoral reform.