(KYIV, UKRAINE) – The Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is facing growing public mockery and diminishing respect among ordinary Russians as his image as a strong leader crumbles under the weight of Ukraine’s drone campaign and the war’s impact on Russian territory.
Russian vloggers and ordinary citizens are increasingly speaking openly about Putin’s perceived cowardice, noting his repeated absences from public view during crises and his decision to avoid his favoured residences as Ukrainian drones reach deeper into Russian territory.
One significant sign of his retreat from public accountability is the Kremlin’s reported decision to cancel Putin’s annual address to senators and deputies, a constitutional obligation comparable to the State of the Union speech in the United States. The decision suggests an unwillingness to address the state of Russia’s economy, military failures and the growing domestic impact of the war.
Putin has stopped visiting his residences in Sochi, Gelendzhik and Valdai, all of which are now within range of Ukrainian drone strikes. He has also relocated his yacht to the North Sea, out of reach of Ukrainian forces.
Russian air defence systems have proven unable to protect even Moscow, where Ukrainian drones have successfully struck oil refineries and military production sites despite Putin’s personal assurances about the capital’s defences.
The fuel crisis has reached Moscow and St Petersburg, with long queues at petrol stations and severe shortages across the country. Russians joke that when Putin visits a Siberian city, petrol suddenly becomes available there.
Russia’s control over Crimea has been severely degraded. Ukrainian forces now control logistics routes to the peninsula, and Russian military experts are questioning the value of occupying territory that can no longer be effectively used.
The war has transformed Moscow and St Petersburg into active war zones, a reality unthinkable in 2022. This is the fifth year of drone attacks on Kyiv, but only the first year of drones reaching Moscow.
Putin’s public appearances have become increasingly rare, and when he does appear, observers note his pale appearance and uncomfortable demeanour in military uniforms.
For ordinary Russians living in peripheral regions, the myth of Russia’s greatness has been shattered. They see Putin hiding his assets while their towns remain unprotected, and they face the prospect of autumn conscription.
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