Former British ambassador to Russia, Sir Tony Brenton, has expressed concerns about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, referring to it as a “proxy war.” Sir Tony, who served as the British ambassador to Russia from 2004 to 2008, shared his insights with Sky News regarding the Russian election and its potential implications for the war in Ukraine.
According to Sir Tony, the main objective of the Russian government is to secure a high majority for President Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election, as well as a high voter turnout. Russia has reported that 37% of voters have already cast their ballots, with two days remaining until the polls close. Sir Tony emphasized that the election serves as a means for Putin to demonstrate national support for his leadership and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Putin’s focus on the war in Ukraine is evident, with Sir Tony noting that the Russian president has lost interest in other aspects of governance but remains committed to achieving victory in the conflict. Public support is crucial for Putin to maintain his stance on the war, with opinion polls indicating that a significant portion of the Russian population supports him. However, Sir Tony pointed out that this support may be more of acquiescence rather than genuine enthusiasm.
The war in Ukraine has been portrayed as a defense against perceived threats from the West, leading to a sense of patriotism among Russians who rally around their leadership. Putin and his allies believe that the conflict is progressing in the right direction and have confidence in their control over the national political system.
Looking ahead, Sir Tony expressed concerns that the conflict in Ukraine may continue as a “flat opposition and war of attrition” for another couple of years. This scenario does not bode well for the situation in Ukraine, as external powers continue to be involved in what is essentially a proxy war on Ukrainian soil.
In conclusion, the situation in Ukraine remains complex, with the proxy war showing no signs of imminent resolution. As global powers maneuver for influence in the region, the Ukrainian people bear the brunt of the devastating consequences of this ongoing conflict.
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