Putin's Image Challenged by Ukraine's Kursk Incursion

As the war in Ukraine enters its third year, historians critique Vladimir Putin's ideological justifications for the invasion, which rest on the myth of Ukraine as historically Russian territory, a narrative dismissed as falsehoods by experts like Timothy Snyder. In a recent conversation with Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict following his visit to Ukraine, while the Kremlin reiterated its stance on Ukraine's alleged destructive policies. Meanwhile, reports indicate a troubling trend as Russian conscripts, faced with combat for the first time, are surrendering to Ukrainian forces, reflecting a crisis in morale and public sentiment within Russia. The Ukrainian military's significant advances into Russian territory, particularly in the Kursk region, further challenge Putin's portrayal as a strong leader and protector of the Russian people. This ongoing conflict has not only seen territorial losses for Russia but has also exposed the government’s inability to safeguard its citizens from increasing attacks. As the situation evolves, the internal dynamics of Russia's military and public perception are becoming critical to understanding the broader implications of the war.