> The Ukranians are not in the same place (the Russians will not slaughter them) In other circumstances, I'd agree with you. But everybody is wondering what Pu

> The Ukranians are not in the same place (the Russians will not slaughter them) In other circumstances, I'd agree with you. But everybody is wondering what Putin's options are? His Blitzkrieg didn't work at all, he tried several times and failed. What is happening now is a regular war on several fronts with civilian casualties. So what is going to happen if months pass and Ukraine is still fighting? Will he be able to swallow it? Many people are afraid he is too megalomaniac to do that and when pressed can start being more brutal than he is now. He is regarded as a war criminal already, what else does he have to lose? Those who listen to Russian propaganda will believe all he says anyway; the rest can be kept in order by an extended police state.