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The consequences of Russia’s war against Ukraine are becoming increasingly visible inside Russia itself, with public confidence in President Vladimir Putin falling to its lowest level since the start of the full-scale invasion, according to recent polling.
As reported by The New York Times, the Kremlin has sought to shield the Russian public from the costs of the war by maintaining the appearance of stability and control. However, growing economic difficulties and Ukraine’s expanding long-range strike campaign are increasingly challenging that strategy, UATV English reports.
According to a survey conducted by Russia’s Public Opinion Foundation (FOM), Putin’s approval rating has dropped to its lowest point since February 2022. The poll was carried out following a large-scale Ukrainian aerial attack on Russian territory, during which public distrust of the authorities increased.
The survey also found declining confidence in the Russian government, while nearly half of respondents reported rising gasoline prices—one of the economic effects linked to disruptions caused by the war.
The deterioration comes as Ukraine continues to intensify long-range strikes against military, industrial, and energy infrastructure inside Russia, while also increasing pressure on Russian logistics in occupied Crimea.
Earlier, reports indicated that Putin held talks with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko amid claims that the Kremlin is increasing pressure on Minsk to become more directly involved in the war against Ukraine.
