President Vladimir Putin has promised to drive Ukrainian forces out of Russian territory, but this task has proven difficult. The Ukrainian military recently launched a surprise attack in Russia’s Kursk region, where they have been taking control of areas for over a week, according to the BBC.
This is not the first time Putin’s leadership has been tested, but the length of this attack could increase pressure on him.
Back in 2000, the Kursk submarine disaster was one of the first major challenges Putin faced as president. The tragedy killed 118 sailors, and Russian TV channels openly criticized him for his response, as noted by the BBC.
Fast forward to 2024, and the word “Kursk” is once again significant, but this time it refers to the region where Ukrainian troops are advancing. The difference now, as the BBC highlights, is that Russian media is tightly controlled, and there’s no public criticism of Putin’s handling of the conflict.
Through his years in power, Putin has built a strong image as “Mr. Security,” positioning himself as the only leader capable of keeping Russia safe.
His full-scale invasion of Ukraine was supposed to enhance Russia’s security, yet two and a half years later, the situation is far from safe, with Ukrainian forces now inside Russia, more NATO presence near Russia’s borders, and frequent drone attacks on Russian towns, the BBC explains.
Putin has carefully avoided calling the Ukrainian attacks an “invasion,” instead using softer terms like “the situation in the border area” or “provocation,” the BBC reports.
While he has vowed to push Ukrainian forces back, despite sending reinforcements, Russia has yet to regain full control in the Kursk region.
The BBC also shares a surreal moment that occurred as workers set up for an event near the Kremlin. Edith Piaf’s song Non, je ne regrette rien (“No, I regret nothing”) was playing, echoing through Red Square. Putin’s public statements show no regret for the war or his decisions.
He remains convinced that Russia will ultimately win, despite the ongoing challenges .
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/credw5q0705o