I would add that at the same point in the war with Chechnya, the Russian forces were faring similarly. Ukraine is not Chechnya so there's reason for hope. It's

I would add that at the same point in the war with Chechnya, the Russian forces were faring similarly. Ukraine is not Chechnya so there's reason for hope. It's also worth noting that although Russian soldiers aren't with their backs to the wall (whereas the Ukrainian soldiers are), Putin's back certainly is to the wall, and he is not democratically-elected. He has been subject to geopolitical constraints (as will be any Russian leader). Post-war (if it concludes favorably for Ukraine), Putin can still create pain for Ukraine (and Europe) by cutting off gas supplies. He can still do much to hold back Ukraine economically and politically. If we want to score one for democracy, then we would do well not to 1. "win the fight" and 2. get triumphant. If there is a positive resolution for Ukraine in terms of military outcome, the leaders over nonetheless need look for an endgame.