The Institute for the Study of War suggests that Russian President Vladimir Putin's efforts to revive the Russian economy are not solely about funding the country's war on Ukraine. According to a report by the ISW on Wednesday, several Russian financial, economic, and military indicators indicate that Russia is preparing for a large-scale conventional conflict with NATO, likely on a shorter timeline than previously thought by Western analysts.
The ISW referenced a meeting Putin held with the Russian Duma on Tuesday, shortly after claiming a landslide victory in his fifth presidential election. During the meeting, Putin emphasized his focus areas for his fifth presidential term, highlighting the importance of "saving people" and "helping out families." He stressed that these goals could only be achieved through economic development, which he described as crucial for addressing issues related to technological sovereignty and social development.
Putin also criticized Russia's wealthy elite, urging lawmakers to prioritize the country's interests over corporate or party interests. The ISW interpreted these remarks as a signal from Putin to Russia's elite that they might need to endure some economic hardship for the sake of Russia's financial stability.
The ISW's report suggests that Putin's efforts to stabilize Russia's economy and finances are part of the country's preparations for a potential large-scale conflict with NATO, rather than just for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
This is not the first time analysts have warned of a possible war between Russia and NATO. Estonia's foreign-intelligence service previously stated in a report that Russia was gearing up for a "confrontation with the West."
