Opinion: The only way to inflict real costs on Vladimir Putin is to destabilize his symbiotic relationship with his cronies.
Vladimir Putin’s speech Tuesday was much anticipated. Analysts had speculated whether the Russian president would announce a new wave of mobilization, more nuclear threats, or give any other indications as to his next steps. In this sense, the actual speech was a letdown.
The speech was aimed at the domestic audience, and primarily, the members of Putin’s inner circle. The bulk of the speech consisted of announcements of new domestic initiatives to support the indispensable contributors to the “special operation” — a fund to support veterans and families of the deceased, a state-subsidized housing program, and infrastructural and financial initiatives.
The Western sanctions cut off access to some of the rents, and the newly announced economic package helps offset these losses. “Prove your loyalty,” says the Russian leader, “and I will put you in charge of a massive government program, with trillions of rubles to spend at your own discretion, no questions asked.” OK, he didn’t say this exact line, but that is what he meant. If you watch closely, audience members perk up during this part of the speech; they know a handout when they see it.
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