(KYIV) — During the latest broadcast of “Sunday Evening With Vladimir Solovyov,” prominent Kremlin media figures and military experts admitted to significant failings in Russia’s economic and military sectors. The discussion, marking four years and three days since the full scale invasion of Ukraine began, shifted from religious rhetoric to blunt admissions regarding Russia’s inability to compete with Western maritime power and a domestic “lack of money” despite official state narratives.
Vladimir Solovyov opened the programme with a sombre tone, asking for forgiveness for “offences caused voluntarily or involuntarily.” He quickly transitioned to a warning of a global “schism,” characterising the conflict as a struggle between traditional religious values and “absolute Satanism.” Solovyov reiterated the nuclear threats frequently used by the Russian dictator, quoting Vladimir Putin’s previous assertion: “Why do we need a world if Russia is not in it?”
The panel’s military assessment was notably pessimistic regarding the Russian Navy. Expert Evgeny Buzhinsky conceded that Russia currently cannot compete with the combined NATO fleet led by the United States in the global ocean. To address this deficit, Solovyov proposed a “magnificent reserve,” suggesting the seizure and arming of yachts belonging to Russian oligarchs. He argued these vessels should be converted into platforms for drone systems and new weaponry, mocking the wealthy elite who have remained silent during the war.
The economic debate revealed further internal friction. Professor Dmitry Evstafiev questioned why Russia, despite its vast natural resources, is currently facing a liquidity crisis. He noted that the “mega regulator,” referencing the Central Bank, has indicated there is no money available. Evstafiev dismissed the idea of relying on foreign investment from the “Global South,” arguing that Russia already possesses the resources and competencies required. He concluded that Western elites only respect strength and called for the internal creation of economic power, despite Solovyov ending the segment with the blunt admission: “There is no money.”
