Is Putin Feeling Pressure? Payments, Economy, and Traitors!

 It is helpful to keep up with the happenings of the global markets and the pressures facing Europe, US, China, Russia, and the rest of the world. At present it appears Russia is limping along but certainly reeling on the economic and internal social side. Of course they have been ostracized by the wider international community  (save a few countries) and likely beginning to feel the risk of internal schisms and economic collapse (Likely scenarios not initially thought of in Plan A and that often comes from not scanning all of the alternatives, failing to surround yourself with people of different points of view to enhance objective thinking, and a particular covert background that focuses on the harder sides of strength versus the softer support side that leads to moral and economic strength.). Of course no one really knows what will happen but it will be interesting to watch (I am biased toward a US win.). It does appear that Russia will need to make some bigger choices about withdrawal, double down on prior strategy, or negotiate a perceived win out of Ukraine (through trying to obtain alternative security agreements between NATO and Russia.)

Economic Problems and Payments

There are indications that the Russian economy is suffering and that there has been a movement to prepare people of the pain they will endure. Serious economic difficulties and/or collapse is going to radicalize some in certain circles and likely create dissention in others. There will be increased pressure to get back to normal economic activities. Resources will scarce and lots of creative financing going on.  The Russian Economy Is Headed for Collapse,  Russia says it made a payment to avoid default, The Russian Economy Is Headed for Collapse

Internal Dissention and Traitors! 

Discussion on traitors and internal pressure which has the potential to further divide internal factions. Russian Activists and Journalists Targeted After Putin’s Call for Purge of ‘Traitors’ and Putin Vows to Rid Russia of ‘Traitors’ While Waging Ukraine War. The biggest risks are if this becomes a movement, wealthy oligarchs encourage it, and the inner circle begins to question the value of Ukraine invasion.

In a bizarre sort of way Putin could actually find himself in a prison somewhere in the future so he will not be willing to give up power easily. Expect a bumpy ride if he feels cornered or pressured. Maybe he will get out unscathed but it is becoming increasingly unlikely the longer this goes on. Self preservation should to start to kick in now.