Putin’s Grip: Unyielding Despite Domestic Storms

In the heart of Moscow, the Kremlin’s towers stand tall and imposing, a symbol of power that has weathered countless storms. Today, they bear witness to a different kind of storm – one brewing within Russia’s borders. Vladimir Putin, the man who has steered Russia’s course for over two decades, faces headwinds at home, yet his grip on power remains unyielding.

Navigating the Economic Downturn

Malta, with its close economic ties to Russia, feels the ripples of Russia’s economic woes. The Russian ruble’s volatility has been a challenge for local businesses, particularly those in the tourism and construction sectors. “We’ve seen a dip in Russian tourists this year,” says Mario, a hotel manager in St. Julian’s. “But we’re not panicking. We’ve been through tough times before.”

Putin’s government has had to navigate a perfect storm of economic sanctions, low oil prices, and now, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, Russia’s economy has proven resilient. The World Bank predicts a 3% growth in 2021, a testament to Putin’s economic management.

Dissent at Home: A Growing Trend?

While the economy holds steady, dissent at home is on the rise. Protests erupted in Khabarovsk last year over the arrest of a popular governor, a rare show of defiance in Putin’s Russia. Closer to home, Maltese-Russian communities have been watching with interest. “We see what’s happening in Russia, and we discuss it,” says Natasha, a Russian expat living in Sliema. “But we also know that Putin has the support of the majority.”

Putin’s approval ratings, though down from their peak, remain high at around 60%. His handling of the pandemic, despite initial criticism, has bolstered his image. A recent poll by the independent Levada Center showed that 58% of Russians approve of his actions during the crisis.

: The 2024 Elections

The next big event on Russia’s political calendar is the 2024 presidential elections. Putin, constitutionally barred from running again, has not yet announced his plans. Speculation is rife, with some suggesting he could amend the constitution to run again, or anoint a successor.

Back in Malta, the Russian community is divided on what comes next. Some hope for a successor who can maintain Russia’s influence without the baggage of Putin’s past. Others worry about the uncertainty. “Putin is a known quantity,” says Alex, a Russian businessman in Paceville. “We’ll have to wait and see what happens in 2024.”

As the Kremlin towers cast their long shadows over the Moskva River, the question on many minds is not if Putin’s grip will slip, but when, and what comes next. For now, the storm rages on, and Putin stands firm.