Why are Putin’s allies turning against him? - The Times

By focusing almost entirely on its war in Ukraine, Moscow is burning through five decades of global influence. From surrendering exclusive rights to strategic Mediterranean bases in Syria to watching traditional allies across Europe, Latin America and central Asia pivot away, the Kremlin has traded diplomatic leverage for short-term battlefield survival.

As former partners stage an unprecedented revolt, Russia finds itself increasingly isolated and reliant on countries such as North Korea to sustain its war effort. What remains is not simply a diminished power seeking peace, but a cornered state whose remaining influence has become increasingly volatile.