Free Republic

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said there is no need for more massive strikes on Ukraine, days after the heaviest bombardment of the country since the war began. He said most designated targets of the strikes had been hit, adding that it was not his aim to destroy Ukraine. Moscow's goal of mobilising 300,000 men would be met within two weeks, he said. Mr Putin's words come as Russian forces seem stalled and Ukraine advances, almost eight months since the invasion. Speaking to journalists after a summit with regional leaders in Kazakhstan's capital Astana, the Russian leader said that the...

This weekend, Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed with people in his inner circle the concept of a gradual departure from power and ways to ensure continuity in the change of regime leadership. The discussions did not remain an empty phrase, and the prospects began to acquire clearer contours. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, despite all his recent efforts to portray himself as the main "hawk", Putin is going to banally merge, offering him the post of ambassador to one of the countries of Southeast Asia. But before the leak, Dmitry Anatolyevich will have to play the role of a "scapegoat"...