Putin's Alliance: How to Stop His Global Push

On Friday, as Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted over a dozen global leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping, for a Victory Day celebration in Moscow, a contrasting narrative unfolded in Kyiv. At the Kyiv Security Forum, prominent figures offered a detailed evaluation and critique of Putin’s strategies and alliances, marking the fourth year of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Among the speakers were former Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk and former CIA Director and esteemed military leader General David Petraeus, who discussed Putin’s past maneuvers, current aspirations, and his alignment with the so-called ‘axis of authoritarians.’

General Petraeus, a seasoned expert often featured in The Cipher Brief, emphasized that despite Putin’s participation in U.S.-led peace talks, his ultimate goal remains the restoration of Soviet-era influence. ‘His overarching objectives have not shifted,’ Gen. Petraeus asserted. ‘He may settle temporarily for control over four Ukrainian provinces plus Crimea, but that’s far from his ultimate vision.’ Petraeus further underscored the significance of Putin’s broader ambitions, particularly in the context of potential ceasefires and their sustainability.

In my opinion, this gathering in Kyiv served as a crucial platform for exposing the true nature of Putin’s ambitions and the strategic alliances he has forged. It is essential for the international community to recognize the depth of Putin’s objectives and the threat they pose to global stability. The insights provided by leaders like Yatsenyuk and Petraeus are invaluable in shaping a comprehensive strategy to counter Putin’s aggressive policies and the collective influence of the ‘axis of authoritarians.’ As the conflict in Ukraine enters its fourth year, it is more important than ever to remain vigilant and united in the face of such authoritarian threats.