Vladimir Putin's leadership has long been characterized by a blend of nationalism, strategic manipulation, and authoritarian control. However, the biggest mistake he could make is to betray the Russian people by relying on Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko as his proxy. This move would represent a profound misjudgment, threatening both his domestic legitimacy and Russia's geopolitical stability.
Lukashenko, often referred to as "Europe's last dictator," has been an increasingly isolated figure on the international stage, known for his brutal crackdown on dissent and failure to secure widespread domestic support. By aligning too closely with Lukashenko or using him as a puppet leader, Putin risks associating himself with the growing unpopularity and instability in Belarus. This could backfire, as Russian citizens may perceive this as an abandonment of their interests in favor of a foreign dictator whose primary loyalty is to his survival.
Moreover, such a betrayal would undermine Putin's carefully crafted image as a defender of Russian sovereignty and interests. It would suggest a willingness to sacrifice Russian values and independence for geopolitical expediency, leading to potential unrest and erosion of trust within Russia. The Russian populace, already burdened by economic struggles and growing dissatisfaction with corruption, may see this as a final straw, potentially igniting widespread dissent.
In the end, relying on Lukashenko as a proxy would be a strategic blunder, one that could weaken Putin's grip on power and destabilize the region.
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