General Ben Hodges, a former U.S. Army commander, believes that Western sanctions could ultimately lead to the downfall of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He suggests that discontent among Russian oligarchs, who are directly affected by these sanctions, could turn them against Putin if he continues the war in Ukraine.
Since the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the West has imposed stringent sanctions on numerous Russian oligarchs, restricting their ability to travel and freezing their assets. This has severely impacted their international business dealings and financial stability.
Hodges argues that as these oligarchs grow frustrated with the limitations imposed on their wealth and lifestyles, they may decide to withdraw their loyalty from Putin. He emphasizes the need to maintain pressure on Russia and its oligarchs through diplomatic, economic, political, and military means.
Additionally, Hodges points out that the Russian populace could play a crucial role in Putin's potential ousting. While Putin secured a significant majority in recent elections, a decline in public trust could lead to rapid changes.
Hodges concludes that the only viable path to ending the war in Ukraine on acceptable terms for the West and Kyiv is to wait for a change in leadership in Russia, whether through voluntary resignation, death, or removal.