Originally Posted by Osem

My worry is who gets the blame for Putin's stupidity, if that's what it is. Whether he can sufficiently manipulate public opinion to gain support or not, either way it could be very bad news. It'd be nice to think that there'd be those within the upper echelons who'd ensure his prompt and painless removal from office if things got worse but how realistic is that? He's managed to stay put in one form or another for quite some time so must have some very influential friends. Maybe I just need to be less pessimistic...