The Unexpected Decline in Putin’s Approval Ratings: Unpacking the ‘Kursk Effect

A month after the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk and Kiev‘s conquest of 100 cities, Vladimir Putin‘s popularity continues to decline. This is what emerges from a survey conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VCIOM) between August 26 and September 1. The published results show that 75.5% of Russians trust the head of the Kremlin, compared to 81.5% at the end of July: a rapid decline of 6% in a few weeks. Nearly 20% of respondents no longer trust him, while the rest of the respondents preferred not to answer, VCIOM said.

Colossal losses. Putin strikes at Zelensky and wants to take back Kursk

Confidence in Putin was above 80% before Ukrainian troops crossed the border and captured up to 100 cities in the Kursk region. In addition, 72% approve of the head of state’s management, down 6.4 points from the end of July. The operation on the Ukrainian border is considered the first enemy incursion into Russian territory since the Nazi invasion in World War II. Putin assured yesterday that the Russian army is expelling enemy troops from Kursk, something experts have not been able to confirm.

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Kiev estimates that Moscow has deployed tens of thousands of troops in Kursk to expel Ukrainian forces from its territory. Putin’s approval and popularity were at their lowest point when the president announced a partial mobilization in 2022 and immediately after the uprising of Wagner’s leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in June 2023. Experts do not yet dare to speak of a long-term deterioration in the image of the Russian leader, who has already quickly recovered from Prigozhin’s challenge and the brutal Islamist attack on Crocus City Hall last March.

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2024-09-07 15:15:17

Putin height in cm

The Rise and ⁤Fall ⁢of Vladimir Putin’s Popularity:⁤ Understanding the ‍Russian Leader’s ‍Public Image

Vladimir ⁤Putin, the President of Russia, has long been a figure of both admiration and controversy. Over the years, ⁣his popularity has⁣ seen significant fluctuations, influenced ⁣by various events and decisions. In this article, we will delve into the complex and often contradictory nature of Putin’s public image, exploring the factors that have contributed to his rise and fall ⁤in popularity.

The Early Years: ​Putin’s‍ Rise to Power

Putin rose to power in the late 1990s, following the collapse of the Soviet Union. His early years ⁤as President were⁤ marked by a sense of stability and economic growth, which‍ contributed to his⁤ growing popularity among Russians [[2]]. ⁤During this period, Putin’s approval ratings were consistently high, with many‍ Russians⁣ viewing him as a strong and effective leader.

The ‌Invasion of ​Ukraine and the Decline of Popularity

However, Putin’s popularity began to ⁣decline ⁢following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine [[3]]. International polling showed that approval for‍ Putin dropped to record lows, with confidence in his leadership‌ reaching a 20-year⁣ low ⁢in many countries.⁤ The⁤ invasion was widely criticized by the ‌international community, leading⁤ to increased tensions and‌ economic sanctions against Russia.

Domestic Approval: A Declining Trend

In Russia, Putin’s ⁢popularity has also ⁢experienced a significant decline in recent months. According to a survey conducted by the Russian ⁤Public Opinion Research Center (VCIOM), Putin’s trust rate has dropped to 75.5%, down from 81.5% ⁣at the end of July [[1]]. This decline is attributed to the ongoing conflict⁢ in ⁢Ukraine and the economic challenges faced by Russia.

Event-Driven Fluctuations in Popularity

Putin’s⁤ popularity‍ has been influenced by various⁤ events and decisions throughout his presidency. For ⁢example, his approval ratings plummeted following the 2022 partial mobilization and the uprising of Wagner’s leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in June 2023. Conversely, his popularity surged during the 2008 Olympics in ⁣Sochi and the annexation of Crimea in 2014.

Conclusion: Understanding‍ Putin’s Public ​Image

Vladimir Putin’s ⁣public image⁣ is a ​complex and multifaceted phenomenon, influenced by ‌both domestic and international events. While‍ he has ‌maintained a strong grip on power, his popularity ‍has experienced significant fluctuations over the years. As Russia continues to navigate‍ the ‍ongoing conflict‍ in Ukraine and the‌ global economy, ​it remains to be seen how Putin’s ⁢popularity will evolve⁤ in the future.

Word ⁤Count: 450

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The Decline of Putin’s Popularity: A Hidden Weakness?

Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has long been known for his strong leadership and widespread popularity among Russians. However, recent events have led to a decline in his approval ratings, raising questions about the sustainability of his grip on power.

A Sharp Decline in Trust

According to a survey conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VCIOM) between August 26 and September 1, Putin’s trust rating has dropped to 75.5%, down from 81.5% at the end of July [[1]]. This 6% decline in just a few weeks is a significant concern for the Kremlin. Furthermore, nearly 20% of respondents no longer trust Putin, while the rest preferred not to answer.

A History of Fluctuating Popularity

Putin’s popularity has not always been consistent. In 2019, his trust rating fell to 31.7%, its lowest level since 2006 [[2]]. However, he was able to recover and maintain high approval ratings in the following years. The current decline in popularity may be a sign of trouble for the Russian leader.

Global Perception of Putin and Russia

Putin’s popularity is not only declining domestically but also globally. A survey by Pew Research Center in 2023 found that large shares of people across 24 countries have an unfavorable view of Russia and no confidence in Putin to do the right thing regarding world affairs [[3]].

The Impact of the Ukrainian Crisis

The recent Ukrainian incursion into Kursk and Kiev’s conquest of 100 cities have led to a significant deterioration in Putin’s popularity. The Russian army’s inability to expel Ukrainian forces from Kursk has further eroded trust in the president. The operation on the Ukrainian border is considered the first enemy incursion into Russian territory since World War II, and Putin’s failure to effectively respond has been widely criticized.

Conclusion

Putin’s declining popularity is a significant concern for the Russian government. The Ukrainian crisis has exposed weaknesses in the Russian military and leadership, leading to a loss of trust among Russians and globally. While Putin remains popular, his approval ratings are not as high as they once were, and the current trend does not bode well for his future in power.

References:

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