In general, Putin is in a “mess”. Last month, he tried to break through the “wall” of relations between Russia and the West. However, at least Merkel who was in a visit to him in Sochi in the beginning of May, and Macron who met him in Versailles at the end of May, tactfully made their college understand that the name of that “wall” is Putin. He could do nothing other than to ask the American businessmen, who had arrived to participate in the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, to promote the settlement of Russian-American relations.
In this context, it is natural that Putin bypasses the issue of his participation in the 2018 presidential elections. The problem is not that he has a formidable competitor or a real obstacle to win. There cannot be anything like that in today’s Russia. Putin has another, more profound concern. He knows, and understands that the Crimea, and imperial policy are no longer in demand among Russians. So, he has a serious concern that his “triumphant” victory will be the basis for a new “wall”. This time a “wall” between Putin and Russia, between Putin and Russians.
