If reports are true, Vladimir Putin thought the conflict in Ukraine would be over in a matter of days. But the fighting has now been raging for more than 10 months, shows no sign of ending and Russian forces have suffered a string of setbacks.

Ukrainian officials have said that Moscow is preparing a major offensive at the start of the new year. If that goes ahead, and fails to make a breakthrough, what will be the effect on the Russian President? Can he hold on to power in the face of defeat?

Guests:

Andrew D'Anieri

Assistant Director at the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center

Domitilla Sagramoso

Senior Lecturer at King’s College London

Natia Seskuria

Fellow at RUSI

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