The ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been a great burden for Russia, and if Russia fails to win the war, President Vladimir Putin may be forced to resign, according to a former Russian diplomat. Boris Bondarev, an arms control expert at Russia’s diplomatic mission to Geneva, resigned publicly over the invasion of Ukraine last year. He stated in an interview with Newsweek that “Putin can be replaced” and that “such dictators have been replaced from time to time” in history.
When Russia sent its military to Ukraine in February 2022, many experts predicted that Ukraine would suffer a lot, as it was a weaker military force. However, Ukraine held its ground and even killed many of Russia’s soldiers. As a result, experts began to question Putin’s fate. If Putin is unable to win the war on his preferred terms, he may eventually be forced to step down, according to Bondarev.
Bondarev believes that if Russia loses the war, Putin will not be able to provide the country with anything in exchange, leading to “disappointment and disagreement” among his supporters. This could cause his people to believe that they no longer need Putin, which would change the situation. He added that Putin is not a superhero and does not have any superpowers; he is just an ordinary dictator. However, Bondarev is the only Russian diplomat to have publicly quit over the war.
The current war between Russia and Ukraine has led to a great loss of life and resources. It has also caused a significant deterioration in the relationship between Russia and other nations, particularly those in the West. If Russia fails to win the war, the country may face a long road to recovery. Putin’s leadership and future will also be at stake. Bondarev’s comments indicate that Putin’s future is uncertain, and if he fails to achieve his objectives in the war, his leadership may be in danger.
