Putin's Power Wanes as Internet Blockades and War Toll Erode Support

A guest commentary by Alexander Libman highlights a significant decline in Russian President Vladimir Putin's approval ratings as of May 2026. Recent polling data indicates that distrust in Putin has reached its highest level since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, with approximately 25 percent of respondents expressing lack of trust. The analysis identifies three primary challenges to the regime: economic stagnation, successful Ukrainian infrastructure attacks, and controversial government actions, particularly widespread internet shutdowns. While the economy remains weak but stable, the impact of Ukrainian drone strikes has disrupted propaganda rituals, such as military parades. However, the most critical factor undermining support is the state's unpredictable blocking of digital platforms like Telegram. These restrictions severely harm small businesses and freelancers who rely on these tools for communication and payments. Unlike external attacks, the government cannot blame foreign actors for these self-imposed digital blackouts, leading even loyalists and apolitical citizens to question Putin's competence. The article suggests that the combination of war fatigue and domestic policy failures is increasingly destabilizing the regime's previously solid base of support.