Putin, Russia’s confidence drops: war and fuel effect on polls

A parallel survey by the Fom institute shows a slightly different picture: 70 percent of Russians evaluate Putin’s actions positivelyone point less than the previous week, while trust in the President increased by two points, to 71%. According to the American Gallup, 60% of citizens believe that
the economic situation in your city or region has worsened
. The numbers concern the period from March to May. It is the highest figure since 2006, the year in which these checks began in Russia.

The discontent captured by polls and analyzes is closely linked to recent developments in the war with Ukraine. Russia has hit Kiev and Kharkiv in the last few hours with violent raids. Moscow’s defense systems, however, are no longer able to contain Ukrainian drones and missiles which regularly hit energy infrastructures, refineries and oil depots. Result? Petrol becomes a rare commodity in various areas of the country, with kilometre-long queues and inconvenience for motorists. The Ukrainian army, in particular, targeted Belgorod during the night between Thursday and Friday, hitting an energy equipment production plant. This was reported by Russian news channels on Telegram. Photos and videos posted on social media show flames coming from the Energomash plant, a key company in Russia’s energy supply chain. The plant produces, among other materials, equipment for power plants, as well as for the oil and gas sector.

At the same time, Ukrainian forces continue attacks on Crimea. The latest target is Saky air base, targeted for the second time this week. At least seven military aircraft were damaged or destroyed in hangars where Su-30, Su-30SM and SU-24 were also located. Another raid, again organized by the SBU services, hit the Shahed drone warehouse at the Hvardiiske base.