Coming storm: what Putin wants and how to defy him

即将到来的风暴:普京想要什么以及如何与他抗衡

Editor's Picks from The Economist

2025-05-12

9 分钟
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Vladimir Putin's belligerence could threaten NATO. But to stand up to Russia, Europe needs to do more than support Ukraine's war effort—it must prepare for what comes next. Listen to what matters most, from global politics and business to science and technology—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.
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  • The Economist. Hi there, it's Jason Palmer here,

  • co-host of The Intelligence, our daily news and current affairs podcast.

  • This is Editor's Picks.

  • You're about to hear an article from the latest edition of The Economist read aloud.

  • Enjoy.

  • In Red Square on May 9th,

  • Vladimir Putin is due to celebrate Victory Day, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany.

  • The parade used to include Russia's second World War allies.

  • Today, as Mr Putin targets what he absurdly claims is another Nazi government in Ukraine,

  • it signals how Russia stands resolutely against the West.

  • That should worry all of Europe.

  • As the death toll in Ukraine has grown,

  • Mr Putin's war aims have swollen to justify Russian losses.

  • What began as a special military operation next door has become Russia's existential struggle against distant enemies.

  • This is a profound shift.

  • It means Ukraine's future depends on Mr Putin's ambitions more than President Donald Trump's theatrical diplomacy.

  • It also means that many Europeans are complacent about the threat Russia poses and that they misunderstand how to deter him.

  • Russia may not be about to invade other parts of Europe,

  • but it will try to gain sway by redoubling its cyber-attacks,

  • influence operations, assassinations and sabotage.