The Battle Inside Russia’s Elite

As wealthy Russians maneuver to shift blame for the costs of Moscow’s war, Washington can subtly shift their incentives.

Vladimir Puting gives a speech while standing behind a podium. In the background are a few people on stage sitting in chairs and many people off stage sitting down. August 12, 2025, 4:17 PM Comment icon View Comments ( )

Russia’s War in Ukraine

Understanding the conflict three years on.

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As Russia’s economic situation worsens and Ukrainian defenses continue to hold, elite factions in Moscow are maneuvering for position in an uncertain future. Their goal is twofold: to protect the profits and privileges gained during the war, and to deflect blame for its mounting human and financial costs.

Russian Presi

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