Putin’s Departure Won’t Automatically Resolve Russia–Ukraine conflict, Historian Warns
Riga, Latvia – The departure of Vladimir Putin from power will not necessarily lead to an immediate shift in Russia’s foreign policy or a swift resolution to the war in Ukraine, according to Russian historian Yuriy Felshtinsky. Speaking on Latvia’s LTV “One to One” program, Felshtinsky asserted that while Russia’s ability to conquer Ukraine is now demonstrably failing, Putin remains unwilling to engage in meaningful negotiations.
Felshtinsky distinguished Putin from a conventional dictator, stating, “I don’t think that Putin is a classic dictator, I believe he is a man who was put in place by the system – the FDD (Federal Security Service) system.” This suggests putin is a product of, and possibly replaceable within, the existing power structure. However, he cautioned against expecting immediate change following Putin’s exit, adding, “This does not mean that after Putin’s early or late departure, everything will instantly change and everything will immediately fall into place. Of course not.”
Despite this, Felshtinsky believes putin himself currently hinders any progress toward peace talks. “Although I personally believe that at the moment Putin is an obstacle to any negotiations, discussions, discussions related to the war in Ukraine,” he said.
Felshtinsky also noted Putin’s unwillingness to compromise, stating, “I am far from thinking that Russian President Vladimir Putin is capable of sitting down at the negotiating table, at any negotiating table, with anything and doing anything that would change his vision of life.”
Follow us on Telegram or whatsapp for more updates.
