putin ukraine problems

The Autocrat's Curse

GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

The Autocrat's Curse

Two months ago, Joe Biden said invading Ukraine would cost Russia and Vladimir Putin dearly. Since then, not much has gone Putin's way. But can he climb down without a win he can sell back home? While the Russians focus on the Donbas, the US now seems to think it can make Russia lose — which could trigger an escalation if Putin feels he's out of options. On GZERO World, Ian Bremmer speaks to political scientist Ivan Krastev, who believes Putin has the autocrat's curse: his back is against the wall because he can't be perceived as weak.

Beginning of Putin's end

GZERO World with Ian Bremmer

Beginning of Putin's end

On May 9, Vladimir Putin marked the 77th anniversary of Russia's Victory Day in World War II by co-opting its narrative to justify invading Ukraine and paint itself as a victim of Western aggression. On GZERO World, Ian Bremmer speaks to Michael McFaul, who knows a thing or two about Russia and Putin from his days as the former US ambassador in Moscow. "There is not a single economic actor in Russia that thinks this is good," notes McFaul.