The "ancestor worship policy" created by Putin is now working against him — WSJ
The continuation of the war against Ukraine, which has now exceeded the duration of World War II, is reducing trust in Putin in Russia.
The state ideology surrounding May 9th and World War II, cultivated by Russian President Vladimir Putin over the years, has now begun to work against the Kremlin itself. Based on The Wall Street Journal, "Unian" reports.
It is noted that the duration of the war against Ukraine has already exceeded that of the Soviet Union's war against Nazi Germany from 1941–1945. At the same time, Ukrainian drones are striking deeper into Russian territories.
According to WSJ, against the backdrop of stagnation on the front, heavy losses of the Russian army, a worsening economic situation, and drone and missile attacks across the country, discontent is growing in Russian society.
The publication cites the opinion of Putin's former speechwriter, Abbas Gallyamov. According to him, the "policy of ancestor worship" promoted by the Kremlin for years has now begun to backfire.
"Since then, every day intensifies the feeling that we are not worthy of the memory of our grandfathers. Putin created this cult, and now it is working against him," Gallyamov said.
WSJ notes that even some nationalists in Russia who support the war have begun to criticize the current situation.
For instance, Russian media figure Anastasia Kashevarova, in a post on Telegram, spoke about World War II veterans, writing: "By this time, our grandfathers were already in Berlin, while we are still shaking our fists and talking about 'red lines'."
According to the publication, Ukrainian attacks are increasing security concerns within Russia. Now, even regions of Russia far from the front are being viewed as areas reachable by Ukrainian drones.
Carnegie Center expert Alexander Baunov says that Putin is no longer perceived as a "protector" or "superhero" as before.
WSJ also noted that the May 9th parade has become a symbolic pressure point for the Kremlin. According to experts, despite security threats, the Kremlin cannot cancel the parade because May 9th has been elevated to almost a "sacred political symbol" in Russia.
For context, military weapons will not be displayed at the May 9th parade in Moscow. This is being assessed as a measure to ensure security on the eve of the holiday.
