[Skybird]

[Focus] The Ukrainian advance in the Russian region of Kursk has surprised many - including Vladimir Putin. Now the pressure on the Kremlin leader is growing. In an interview with FOCUS online, political scientist Thomas Jäger explains how Putin will react.

Ukraine's surprising advance into the Kursk region has caught the Kremlin unprepared. Ukrainian units are stepping up their pressure in the Kursk region in western Russia and expanding the territories they have gained. In view of these developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin is faced with the challenge of demonstrating strength in both domestic and foreign policy.

According to political expert Thomas Jäger, Putin will probably respond in two ways. Firstly, he has already announced that the reconquest of the territory currently occupied by Ukraine is his top priority. “The time factor will play a role here. If this is achieved quickly, his position will be more secure,” explains Jäger in an interview with FOCUS online.

A quick success would strengthen Putin's position, while a protracted reconquest could complicate his domestic political situation. The restoration of the state border is crucial for Putin in order to maintain his authority. On the other hand, Putin will probably intensify the bombing of civilian targets in Ukraine.


Jäger explains: “But this is, if you like, only a gradual extension, because targets in Ukraine are being bombed all the time, civilian targets.” This tactic serves to demonstrate strength and to punish those who have provoked Russia. For Putin, it is crucial to sell this action as an expression of his power and to restore Russia's territorial integrity, explains Jäger.

However, the foreign policy situation remains complicated for Putin. The surprise success of the Ukrainian troops has made it clear that Russia is vulnerable in this way. “It will be difficult for him to make up for this,” notes Jäger. However, Putin will continue to be courted by those who want something from him and his status as an international pariah will remain unchanged.

In terms of the domestic political impact of the Ukrainian offensive in Kursk, Jäger therefore sees no immediate danger to Putin's position. “I don't think it's likely that the Ukrainian offensive will lead to Putin's position being called into question among the population,” says Jäger.


Instead, responsibility is shifted to other actors. Jäger explains: “There is always someone who is held responsible. Someone who wasn't able to do their job.” These people could be punished, “and in the end it will mean that Putin has made up for everything that others here were unable to do professionally.”