Don't forget that Ukraine is successfully counterattacking, just not in Luhansk. They've gained all of the ground around Kyiv, plus advancing roughly to the Russian border outside Kharkiv and moving towards Kherson. They are probably making fairly big moves near Kherson since the Ukrainian army has asked for a news blackout in that region to avoid telegraphing their moves to the Russians.
I think it's important to differentiate between political support and general support within these countries - especially China. If you're under the impression there's a natural unquestioned endorsement of Xi's policies and alliances, then you're likely mistaken. Politics aren't discussed within China and that's not due to conventional polite social courtesy.
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It's worth remembering that they've been losing a couple of generals (and lots of colonels) every week to snipers and Putin's recalls. Even in a big military, generals are in very finite supply. And, since the Russian military only functions with officers in command, once they start running out, the army loses function altogether/collapses.
Looks like they found Fat Bastard....(que Austin Powers music)...
The thing is, I did the math and post a while back, that some of Ukraine's anti-ship missiles would be in range of more Russian ships (in port) if based/launched on Snake Island.
Goodwill...uh yeah...I have this bridge I would like to sell you.....
Does make you wonder what the process is for recruiting these retired generals and high ranking officers. Like you can't imagine a big fella like that would be champing at the bit to get back involved in a military
Hehe. I suppose he has one key advantage - if the Ukrainians cut off the supply lines, he'd last a while albeit not his jovial self.
Odesa is a melting pot. People from all over the world call Odesa home. The indigenous locals speak Russian.
I sure hope so. Russians controlling Odessa would be a very bad thing.
Energy is power and control over those that need it.
