Putin considers war against Ukraine his «historic mission» - FT

For the Kremlin, this is no longer a war for territory, but for the dictator's «legacy»

President of Russia Vladimir Putin sees the war against Ukraine as his “historical mission” - writes about it Financial Times with reference to sources among European officials and intelligence officers.

According to them, Putin is convinced that his future place in history depends on the outcome of the war. He wants to go down in history as «the greatest ruler of Russia after Peter the Great».

«It's not a matter of money - it's a legacy»

European intelligence officers quoted by FT, noted that for Putin, the war has gone beyond rational logic:

«For him, this is not a matter of economics or politics. This is his legacy. His mission».

Sources also said that the Kremlin leader believed that will be able to “help Trump win”, but in the end abandoned this plan, The Russian government has focused on the war with Ukraine.

Kremlin feeds Putin illusions of success

As he writes FT, Putin's military and intelligence services regularly provide him with reports, in which exaggerate the tactical achievements of the Russian army.
They assure the dictator that Ukraine will suffer more losses, а resource advantage remains on the side of russia.

Such reports are generated in the Kremlin the illusion of a “steady advance”, The Russian army is suffering heavy losses and is forced to throw reserves to hold the front line.

European assessment of the situation

One European diplomat was quoted as saying FT, summed up:

«Putin believes he can win. And that is what makes him dangerous.».

Brussels and London believe that this perception of war as a “mission of life” means that the Kremlin will not compromise even under pressure from sanctions or losses.