Renowned financier and Kremlin critic William Browder has painted a stark picture of Vladimir Putin's mindset, likening the Russian leader to a gangster whose primary drive is survival. According to Browder, this instinct is what will prevent the war in Ukraine from ending anytime soon—Putin will only stop when he can claim victory.
The Gangster Mentality
Browder, who has faced persecution from the Kremlin himself, argues that Putin operates like a mafia boss rather than a statesman. His decisions are driven by self-preservation, not ideology or strategy. "Like any gangster, his first priority is staying in power," Browder explains. "That means he can't afford to lose."
Why the War Drags On
This survival instinct, Browder suggests, is why Putin refuses to back down despite mounting losses and international condemnation. "He knows that defeat in Ukraine could spell the end of his regime," Browder warns. "So he'll keep fighting, no matter the cost, until he can spin some version of victory."
The Implications for the West
Browder's analysis carries sobering implications for Western policymakers. If Putin's only exit strategy is a face-saving win, negotiations or concessions may prove futile. The West must prepare for a prolonged conflict unless Putin's grip on power weakens internally.
Ultimately, Browder's assessment underscores the peril of dealing with a leader who views geopolitics through the lens of personal survival—a mindset that leaves little room for compromise.
