Authors

Discussion

This paper provides a nuanced examination of the pivotal role of war within Vladimir Putin's project for Russia, demonstrating how it has become an integral and dynamic component of his regime. While recognizing the conventional narrative that war is primarily driven by national security concerns, this paper delves deeper into the notion that war serves as a foundational element of Putin's vision for Russia. It highlights that Putin's imperial thrust, rooted in the internal dynamics of his system, seeks to revitalize Russia as a global power. Importantly, this analysis contends that the current Russian regime does not rely solely on traditional ideology but rather endeavors to transform its propaganda clichés into an overarching ideological platform. The paper explores the multifaceted dimensions of this proposition, emphasizing how the Kremlin skillfully taps into Russia's imperial history, nurtures feelings of resentment, stokes perceptions of humiliation, and employs necropolitics as a form of biopolitics. It argues that these strategic elements serve to mold Russian society into a more compliant and accepting populace, prepared to endure the hardships and human costs of war. It underscores that the war in Ukraine is not merely a foreign policy maneuver but an essential and transformative element of Putin's Russia, with far-reaching implications for both the domestic landscape and international relations.