Ukraine's success in Kursk region can "bury" Putin
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2025 holds great promise for Ukraine and its President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. For Vladimir Putin, however, the situation is looking increasingly difficult. His failures on the battlefield and internal problems indicate a weakening of his position.
This opinion was expressed by journalist Hamish de Bretton-Gordon in his column for The Telegraph.
The Armed Forces' operation in the Kursk region humiliates Putin
The journalist said that the failure of the so-called "special military operation", which has dragged on for almost four years, continues to undermine the authority of the Russian leader. In addition, daily losses, particularly in the Kursk region, where the Ukrainian army has suffered a serious blow, are forcing the Kremlin to "work in survival mode".
Recently, Ukrainian forces have successfully destroyed a key Russian command center in Kursk, inflicting losses on the 801st Marine Brigade, which Ukraine says has lost a significant portion of its personnel. Among the dead were hundreds of North Korean troops sent in as reinforcements.
Russia tries to save the situation by sending its most trusted generals to the region. However, the lack of military equipment and morale makes the defense of Kursk rather weak.
These events sometimes strengthen Kyiv's position. The journalist added that Ukraine recently cut off the transit of Russian gas to Europe, which dealt a serious economic blow to the Kremlin.
Russia does not know what to expect from Trump
In the geopolitical arena, the prospects for Ukraine in 2025 also look encouraging. Uncertainty about the support of former US President Donald Trump is forcing Russia to look for a way out. Zelenskyy, for his part, has a chance to strengthen his position, especially if support from NATO countries remains stable.
Putin's political career is falling apart
Putin is facing growing pressure both domestically and internationally. His further actions could be decisive for his political career, Hamish de Bretton-Gordon is convinced.
"Putin knows that failed Russian dictators rarely retire peacefully and seems to be planning his exit. His latest gambit to "save" Kursk puts him in a position of "check," if not "checkmate." While this is a positive development, it’s crucial for the West and European NATO countries to maintain pressure and avoid granting him any concessions. For Ukraine, the situation looks more promising if we exercise restraint," the journalist summarized.
As a reminder, Bellingcat investigative journalist Khristo Grozev suggested the conditions under which Putin might agree to Ukraine's accession to NATO.
Also recently, the German publication BILD stated that Russia is allegedly preparing a plan to prepare Russians for the end of the war.
