Putin faces 'very difficult choice' because of war in Ukraine – head of Estonia's foreign intelligence service
Kaupo Rosin, head of Estonia's Foreign Intelligence Service (VLA) stated this in an interview with Reuters, according to Ukrinform.
Rosin stated that in the fifth year of the full-scale war, Russia is losing more soldiers than it recruits, while general mobilization would be deeply unpopular and could undermine domestic stability.
"All these factors together are creating a situation where some people in Russia including in the higher levels understand that they have a big problem. Hard to say what Putin thinks about it, but I think all these factors are starting to float into his decision-making," the VLA chief said.
According to him, the main reason Russia's financial situation is "so bad" is the "really, really hurting" sanctions, while strict measures against Russian oil exports are also limiting the aggressor state's revenues.
"I think it's very difficult choices for them now. It's hard to predict what they will decide in this current situation," Rosin emphasized.
Estonia, which shares a land border with Russia, is one of Ukraine's strongest supporters within NATO and the European Union and consistently calls on allies to increase pressure on Moscow.
"So my message is let's push forward with (sanctions). This is not the time to hesitate, just let's keep going," Rosin stressed.
He also expressed confidence that Russia will not abandon its goal of subjugating Ukraine as long as Putin remains in power and that Moscow will maintain a significant military presence along Ukraine's borders even after the conflict ends.
At the same time, the Estonian intelligence chief believes Russia will continue carrying out sabotage operations in the West.
As Ukrinform previously reported, the Chief of the Defence Staff of the British Armed Forces stated that the Russian threat is growing because Moscow is learning and adapting during the war against Ukraine, meaning Europe must strengthen its own defense capabilities.
