Russian Hearts, Minds and Refrigerators

Polls expose divisions among Russians over their government’s intervention in Ukraine: there is a nationalistic streak with 44 percent viewing Americans as the enemy, but also a practical side, with 19 percent suggesting Ukraine belongs to Russia, down from near 50 percent a year ago, reports Gideon Rachman for the Financial Times. Many observers do not expect a ceasefire to last. How far Russia goes in weakening Ukraine depends on the willingness of Russian citizens to endure economic hardship associated with sanctions, and Rachman notes, “while Moscow may have the military and diplomatic advantage, in other crucial respects its position is weak and growing weaker.” Russia is not a democracy, but citizen support eases President Vladimir Putin’s rule. Putin would prefer military battle over economic battle, Rachman argues. He points out that Russia has legitimate concerns in Ukraine, but that the conflict is a case study for US President Barack Obama’s policy of “strategic patience.” Military intervention must end. Until that happens, Rachman urges escalating financial sanctions. – YaleGlobal