Not even "hellish sanctions" will make the Kremlin give up its war: Historian explains Putin’s intentions

Western sanctions cannot alter the Kremlin’s policy or halt the war in Ukraine.

Doctor of Historical Sciences Ihor Todorov said this on the air of the Kyiv 24 TV channel.

According to the expert, the main goal of Russian president Vladimir Putin is the elimination of Ukrainian statehood, and this imperial course remains a priority despite Russia’s economic losses.

Todorov said Russian society is unlikely to resist even if living standards fall sharply, including fuel shortages, lower incomes, or stronger sanctions.

“Hellish sanctions” will not have a decisive impact on Kremlin policy in the short term, the historian says. Russia is ready to endure economic restrictions to continue its aggression against Ukraine.

"Putin’s goal is fanatically fixed on eliminating Ukraine, and he is willing to endure any sanctions consequences. Russian society will not rise against the authorities even if fuel and other basic resources run out. This reality means that even “hellish sanctions” will not, in the short term, change the Kremlin’s stance or reduce its aggression against Ukraine", the historian said.