A traveling observer senses Russia's mood darken as war drags on and fuel shortages bite

From yearly visits since 2022, the author says Russia’s mood has shifted from cautious adaptation to strain amid fuel shortages tied to the Ukraine war. While Zelensky pursues victory and the West funds Ukraine, the piece argues that Putin’s regime remains tightly controlled and Russia’s economy still functions, aided by possible monetary easing and ruble adjustments. A Soviet-style collapse is unlikely in the near term, though public mood and economic pressures suggest growing unease.