ISW names Russian figures of authority who have influence over Putin

ISW published usual report on their webpage.

ISW writes that discussion of the many shortcomings of the Russian military is influencing societal dynamics more and more. According to Russian milbloggers, women, likely families of Russian military and mobilized troops, have been contacting local government authorities and milbloggers to draw attention to the war's failing state.

Since the start of partial mobilization in late September, ISW has seen several examples of Russian military personnel's mothers and spouses campaigning for their relatives who are serving in the military by contacting regional leaders and well-known Russian milbloggers. Social tensions will probably increase as the war goes on as a result of the Russian MoD's inability to adequately address these systemic problems and their underlying causes.

ISW also points out that the Russian pro-war siloviki faction is increasing its influence in part to advance personal interests in Russia and occupied Ukraine, not strictly to win the war.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group financier, revealed on November 6 that the group is establishing training and management centers for militias operated outside of the Russian Armed Forces in the oblasts of Kursk and Belgorod.

According to the ISW report, Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of Chechnya, is also looking to capitalize on business opportunities following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Kadyrov and his field commanders are expanding their business networks in the Russian controlled territory, according to the Ukrainian Resistance Center.

“Both Prigozhin and Kadyrov remain independent figures within Russia due to Putin’s dependency on their forces in Ukraine,” the experts claim.

Prigozhin is frequently questioned by Russian media about his ambitions for the Kremlin, which, despite his repeated denials, demonstrates that he has fostered a public notion that he may someday hold a position of authority.

ISW underlines that such conversations depart from Putin's long-held claim that he is the only Russian leader who can lead the country successfully.