Who did Stalin blame for the problems in their country?

Stalin often blamed various groups for the problems facing the Soviet Union, particularly targeting the kulaks (wealthy peasants), political dissidents, and foreign enemies. He used these scapegoats to justify his policies, including collectivization and purges, framing them as necessary actions to protect the state. Additionally, he portrayed counter-revolutionaries and Trotskyists as threats to justify repression and consolidate his power. This narrative helped to rally support while diverting attention from the regime's own failures.