Putin’s War Machine Grinds Down: FSB Takes Over as Russia’s Economy Bleeds and Allies Defy Sanctions

Russia’s war in Ukraine is entering a critical phase, with President Vladimir Putin trapped between an unwinnable conflict and a crumbling economy, while his own spy agency has seized control of government and his inner circle openly flouts Western sanctions.

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According to multiple reports, the Federal Security Service (FSB), the successor to the Soviet KGB and the agency where Putin once trained, now controls key military and political decisions, shutting down the internet, running propaganda in schools, and prosecuting critics [161656][163713][163113]. This power shift comes as Putin warned of a growing economic deficit at Russia’s own Davos-style forum, highlighting the financial strain of the war [167774]. Analysts say Putin is stuck—he cannot win the war but cannot quit it either [168247]. Meanwhile, a Wall Street Journal investigation found that Putin’s close allies still fly on exclusive Western-made private jets, raising serious questions about the effectiveness of international sanctions [167834]. At the same time, Britain, France, and Germany have united behind Ukraine’s peace plan and are demanding Putin accept a ceasefire, while U.S. Representative Michael McCaul called for tougher measures against Russia, stating, “I’m in on that fight” [168217][168501].

Sources

Putin’s war puts spy agency FSB in charge of Russia #161656Putin’s war puts spy agency FSB in charge of Russia #163713Putin’s war puts spy agency FSB in charge of Russia #163113Putin warns of economic deficit at Russia's Davos #167774Putin Can’t Win, Can’t Quit: Analyst Says He’s Trapped #168247Putin’s Allies Fly Western Jets Despite Sanctions #167834UK, France, Germany Back Kyiv’s Peace Plan, Demand Putin Accept Ceasefire #168217Rep. McCaul: US must get tougher on Russia, ‘I’m in on that fight’ #168501

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