Kremlin trying to fake military strength ahead of Putin-Trump call — ISW

 The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported the information.

On May 18, Kremlin-friendly journalist Pavel Zarubin released clips from what he claimed was a new interview with Putin. In it, the Russian leader says Russia supposedly has enough resources to bring the war in Ukraine to a “logical conclusion” with results the Kremlin wants. He also repeated talking points about “protecting Russian-speakers” and said the “root causes” of the war should be discussed in potential negotiations.

However, according to The Kyiv Independent and Russian outlets, these clips are actually from the documentary Russia.Kremlin.Putin.25 Years, published back on May 4. ISW believes reusing these statements just a day before the Trump call is the Kremlin’s attempt to project strength to both Western and domestic audiences.

Meanwhile, Russian officials are continuing their aggressive messaging. Putin’s aide Vladimir Medinsky said Russia is ready to “fight as long as necessary,” while Russian Security Council Secretary Dmitry Medvedev once again hinted at possible nuclear weapons use.

At the same time, Finnish President Alexander Stubb told The Guardian that the Kremlin is exaggerating the strength of both its military and economy. He pointed out that Russia’s financial reserves are drained and the central bank’s key interest rate is over 20%.

ISW also notes that Russia’s economy is under serious pressure due to military spending, inflation, labor shortages, and a shrinking reserve fund. With these issues piling up, Putin could be facing major strategic and economic trouble by 2026–2027.

• On May 17, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would speak by phone with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on Monday, May 19, followed by a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.