More than a million Russians have been killed or severely wounded since the conflict in Ukraine began. This devastating toll has helped sustain one man’s grip on power: Vladimir Putin. For the Russian president, the continuation of the ‘special military operation’ is not merely a political endeavor—it is a matter of survival.
Why War Is Putin’s Key to Power
Putin’s justification for the invasion of Ukraine stems from an audacious historical narrative, claiming that Ukraine, including regions like Donetsk, Crimea, and the Donbas, rightfully belongs to Russia. The alleged aim is to reunite ‘lost’ territories while preventing Ukraine from joining NATO. However, deeper analysis reveals Machiavellian motives. As political instability looms within Russia, war serves as Putin’s primary tool for consolidating power and suppressing dissent.
Niccolò Machiavelli, the Italian philosopher infamous for his power-driven strategies, emphasized that war is the most effective tool for survival for rulers. Putin, adopting this philosophy, has shown a staggering willingness to sacrifice millions to preserve his position. His strategy has led to untold suffering but ensures he remains at the top of Russia’s power hierarchy.
The Cost to Russia and Its People
Although Putin remains firmly in control, ordinary Russians bear the brunt of this prolonged conflict. The country’s economy, once buoyed by energy exports, now falters under sanctions and reduced global demand for Russian oil and gas. Inflation remains high at 10%, and corruption permeates every layer of government, further devastating public trust and individual livelihoods.
Life in Russia under this regime echoes the dysfunction of a mafia state, with Putin as the ultimate godfather. State-sponsored murders and suppression of dissent are common, revealing a system that prioritizes power over justice. Prominent examples include Sergei Magnitsky, a lawyer who was beaten to death in a Russian prison for exposing corruption. His death symbolizes the extremes to which the Russian state will go to silence critics.
The Global Fallout of Putin’s Aggression
Ukraine’s courageous resistance has thus far prevented Putin’s ambitions from growing. Had Ukrainian forces failed to mount such a resolute defense, other nations, like Poland, might now be under threat. Europe and the broader Western coalition owe a great deal to Ukraine’s determination in curbing Putin’s expansionist agenda.
Meanwhile, on the world stage, alleged peace talks between Russia and the U.S. have revealed both the complexity and superficiality of geopolitics. For example, during a recent summit in Alaska attended by U.S. President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, the Russian leader masterfully sidestepped any significant concessions. Despite empty claims of seeking peace, Putin leveraged the meeting to enhance his credibility and avoid harsh economic penalties, all while solidifying his role as a central player in global politics.
Putin’s Paranoia and the Road Ahead
The Russian leader is acutely aware of the threats to his power, including anti-government activists, rival officials, and international adversaries. His obsession with personal security and survival illustrates the fragility of his regime. As the conflict goes on, the prospect of Putin stepping down peacefully seems increasingly unlikely. More realistically, his exit will coincide with chaos, whether through internal revolt or external intervention.
From a geopolitical perspective, Putin’s refusal to step away from the accelerator has global implications. His regime remains a juggernaut, one that consistently exploits economic, military, and political tools to secure its survival—even at immense financial and human cost.
Living Through Uncertain Times
As observers of these troubling times, it becomes essential to stay informed and understand how global powers influence the dynamics of conflict and peace. Awareness empowers individuals to cope with uncertainty and make informed decisions, whether in politics, personal finance, or health.
Looking for ways to manage stress in troubling times? Incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine can significantly improve mental clarity. A product worth exploring is the Headspace Meditation App, designed to help users reduce stress, improve focus, and find calmness—even during geopolitical turmoil.
