There is a willingness among some Western analysts and Russian opposition to see this as not Russia’s war, but Putin’s war. Although this idea is seductive, it is both wrong and dangerous. #1
It is seductive because it suggests that displacing Putin will be the end of the problem. However, it is wrong factually: (a) around 190000 Russian soldiers are actively involved in fighting; (b) according to various polls between 60 and 80 % оf Russians support the war. #2
This is not to say that there are no Russians against the war. Simply, they are in the minority now and, thus, cannot and do not speak for Russia. #3
For all means and purposes, Russia is at war with Ukraine, not merely some individual called Putin. #4
The 'Putin, not Russia' idea is also dangerous, for it misunderstands the core of the problem, which is the structural and mental setup of Russia as an empire on a revanchist quest. Simply removing Putin does not affect this setup. #5
And as long as Russia remains as it is, not one of its neighbour will feel safe. Russia needs to change more than simply remove Putin. And to get there, stop saying #PutinsWar and start saying what it really is: #Russiawar . #6
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