Western Pressure on Russia Strengthens Putin and Alienate Russians

Nina L. Khrushcheva’s insightful analysis delves into the repercussions of Western pressure on Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. It underscores the disconnect between Western perceptions of Russia’s capabilities and President Vladimir Putin’s resolute stance, revealing a divergence in attitudes between the West and Russia.

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Disparity in Perceptions

Khrushcheva highlights the disparity between US President Joe Biden’s assertion of Russia’s limited resources for prolonged conflict and Putin’s unwavering commitment, which has garnered considerable domestic support. This discrepancy underscores the divergence in Western and Russian perspectives.

The author references Harvard’s Graham Allison, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of global rivals like China, emphasizing its absence in the Western approach to post-Soviet Russia. The article challenges the prevailing assumptions following Russia’s actions in Crimea and Ukraine, pointing out the failure to anticipate alternatives beyond swift victory or collapse.

It elucidates that the oversimplified Western perspective on Russia, depicting it as either a malevolent force or a feeble former power, hinders a deeper comprehension of the country’s motivations and capabilities. This oversimplification exacerbates tensions and alienates Russians, bolstering Putin’s position domestically.

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Implications and Call for Reevaluation

The analysis warns that this oversimplification not only fortifies Putin’s domestic standing but also deepens divisions within Ukraine and undermines prospects for a sustainable resolution. The West’s approach risks perpetuating the conflict and strengthening Putin’s influence.

Khrushcheva’s commentary calls for a reevaluation of Western portrayals of Russia, urging policymakers to adopt a more holistic understanding. It emphasizes the need to recalibrate approaches to avoid bolstering Putin’s regime and alienating the Russian population.

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