One of Putin’s top aides quits, reportedly in opposition to the Ukraine war
CNBCNOV 2021
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
This is an important statement, and highlights the worry surrounding Oligarchs that the Kremlin and Putin have labelled as 'scum.' Russia is clearly willing to turn on its own people no matter the legacy that they've left for the country.
Narrative B
While a welcome statement, this does nothing to suggest that Putin has lost the support of the Russian political elite. Chubais' departure represents an exception, not a trend. Putin's inner circle isn't succumbing any time soon to public protests in Russia or sanctions targeting oligarchs.