Fault Lines Episode 593: Cracks in the Kremlin

Fault Lines Episode 593: Cracks in the Kremlin

From Fault Lines by National Security Institute

May 8, 2026 · 12 min · Episode 593

About this episode

The episode discusses the challenges facing Russia and Putin's grip on power amidst the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Today, Morgan, Les, John, and Matt take stock of a Russia that looks increasingly beleaguered on multiple fronts. With Victory Day tomorrow, Putin is reportedly anxious enough to have called Trump requesting a ceasefire — due to Ukrainian threats to Moscow, military vehicles and troops for the parade are expected to be scaled back, and Putin has ordered an internet blackout. Meanwhile, Russian casualties in Ukraine may now exceed one million, recruits are dying faster than they can be replaced, and Moscow's sphere of influence is contracting from Syria to Mali to Venezuela. Is Putin's obsession with the Victory Day spectacle a sign that his grip on power is slipping? How has Ukraine managed to turn the window created by Middle East instability into new weapons deals, Gulf investment, and fresh diplomatic momentum? With coup rumors circulating and opposition figures being targeted, how real is the threat to Putin's hold on the Kremlin?  Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines. @morganlroach @lestermunson @johnclipsey @wmatthayden Like what we're doing here?  Be sure to rate, review, and subscribe.  And don't forget to follow…

People in this episode

Hosts: Morgan, Les, John, Matt

Topics covered

  • Russia
  • Ukraine
  • Putin's power
  • military conflict
  • international relations
  • Victory Day

Keywords

  • Kremlin
  • casualties
  • ceasefire
  • military vehicles
  • internet blackout
  • coup rumors
  • diplomatic momentum

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Russia, Ukraine, Moscow, Syria, Mali, Venezuela

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