In a gripping new episode of the Full Story podcast, the Guardian delves into the mounting evidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin is losing his grip on power. Dubbed 'grandpa in a bunker' by critics, the leader is reportedly increasingly isolated, surrounded by a shrinking circle of loyalists as the war in Ukraine grinds on.
The Bunker Mentality
According to intelligence sources and Kremlin insiders, Putin has spent more time in his fortified bunker than in the public eye. This physical withdrawal mirrors his psychological retreat, as he relies on a handful of advisors and avoids direct confrontation with the realities of the battlefield. The podcast explores how this isolation is affecting decision-making, with some analysts suggesting that Putin's paranoia is leading to erratic commands that confuse military commanders.
Internal Strife
Beyond the bunker, Russia is facing unprecedented internal pressures. The podcast highlights the growing dissent among the elite, with oligarchs and officials quietly questioning the war's direction. Sanctions have crippled the economy, and the human cost of the conflict is becoming impossible to hide. Reports of mutinies within the military and a surge in emigration among young Russians further underscore the crumbling facade of unity.
One key moment discussed is the recent Wagner Group rebellion, which exposed the fragility of Putin's authority. While the uprising was quelled, it revealed deep fractures in the security apparatus. The podcast features interviews with former Kremlin advisors and political analysts who argue that Putin's response—a mix of threats and concessions—only temporarily patches the cracks.
The Full Story
The episode also examines the international dimension, including how Western allies are recalibrating their strategies in light of Putin's perceived weakness. From increased arms supplies to Ukraine to diplomatic overtures to other global powers, the podcast paints a picture of a world adjusting to a post-Putin reality, even if the man himself remains in power.
Listeners are taken through a timeline of key events, from the early days of the invasion to the present, showing how Putin's once-iron grip has loosened. The podcast concludes with a sobering assessment: while Putin is not yet out of power, the seeds of his downfall have been sown, and the question is no longer 'if' but 'when' the regime will change.
