1/6 One of the reasons why Putin needed popular vote was the increasing set of challenges he faces. #Putin #Constitution #referendum #Russia

2/6 One of these is that a big portion of the Russian elite is no longer convinced that Putin is the best guarantee
of their political and economic survival

3/6 There is a split inside the Russian elite, and by going directly to the Russian people to back his move, Putin proves to this dubious portion of the elite that he maintains popular support.

4/6 The peculiarity of the moment is in the split among the loyalists. The critics, as always, either voted against or abstained from voting. But a portion of Putin’s supporters are not convinced that his continued reign is critical for the stability and survival of the state.

5/6 The result of 79% of "yes" aims to show to the elite that the Russian people form a foundation of support for Putin's rule, not anybody else, to reassure himself and to confirm the right of supporters to call themselves 'majority'.

6/6 21% of officially recognized "no" votes seek to calm down those who voted against, showing them, that they are seen and fairly counted. And to maintain somehow a better, relatively democratic face.