Vladimir Putin Preparing Russia for Possibility of Defeat in Ukraine

The development also comes just days after Putin publicly admitted for the first time in 14 months that Russia is facing “serious challenges” in Ukraine. “The Church has always been together with the people, sharing joys and hardships with them,” Putin said in April while celebrating Orthodox Easter.

“And today, in the face of serious challenges, it is actively involved in the affairs of mercy and charity, helping people find a strong spiritual support.”