Putin is afraid of the end of the war: a political scientist named an unexpected reason

Russian president Vladimir Putin fears the end of the war due to the domestic political situation in the aggressor state, where roughly a third of society seeks the total annihilation of Ukraine.

This opinion was expressed by political scientist Vadym Denisenko during a broadcast on Radio NV.

According to him, 30-35 percent of Russian "hurrah-patriots" want the war to persist until Ukraine is completely destroyed, with some of them forming the backbone and support base of Putin’s electorate, while others are anti-Putin in their stance.

"The end of the war in the spring of 2025 could lead to quiet or silent resistance within the Russian Federation. And the Kremlin bloc responsible for domestic policy does not understand how to return the country to a peaceful course at this point or what to do with these people," the expert noted.

Due to fear of this proactive minority, Denisenko believes, the Kremlin has decided that the war must continue.

"For Putin, it’s typical to delay making a decision when he doesn’t know what to do, postponing it for an indefinite period. In this case, at least until the end of the year," the political scientist suggested.

"Hawks" in Putin’s inner circle

In addition, according to Vadim Denisenko, a group of "hawks"—advocates for continuing the war — has formed around Putin.

"These people have significant influence over Putin and reinforce his belief that a summer counteroffensive must be pursued," he noted.

The political scientist believes this group includes Rostec head Chemezov, who would have to figure out what to do with Russia’s military-industrial complex after the war ends; Putin’s aide Patrushev; Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration Kiriyenko, who oversees all domestic policy; the Kovalchuk brothers, one of whom is Putin’s sparring partner on historical topics; and Putin’s aide responsible for foreign policy, Ushakov.

"This group of five people around Putin is actively lobbying for the idea of continuing the war," Denisenko explains.