Why Putin — Battered, Not Broken — Retains Power for Now

Prigozhin's brief revolt stirred predictions of Putin's downfall, but he swiftly reasserted control, leaving Putin unscathed.

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Putin's strength: immense popularity, consistently above 50%, with a peak of 82% before Wagner's Moscow march.

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Putin's charisma, assertiveness, and successful actions like Crimea maintain Russian support for the Ukraine invasion.

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Putin brought stability after post-Soviet turmoil and economic woes, instilling confidence in Russians.

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Putin boosted living standards but eroded democracy and freedoms, a trade-off accepted by many for stability.

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Predictions of Putin's downfall seem more wishful than realistic despite recent challenges and rebellions.

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Putin neutralizes threats to his regime, surviving activists, sanctions, and military challenges, emerging stronger.

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Putin eliminated democratic rivals, silenced opposition, making Navalny a credible political threat.

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