I think the parent's (@layer8's) snippet provides a pretty accurate and succinct statement of Putin's true (internal) position, actually (most of it anyway -- t

I think the parent's (@layer8's) snippet provides a pretty accurate and succinct statement of Putin's true (internal) position, actually (most of it anyway -- there was also his hope that the SMO would help keep Ukraine and Belarus out of Western influence, and forever grateful for the Motherland's tender affections and embraces; and likely strengthen Russia's long-term position in the oil and gas markets, as a sweet little bonus on top). Even more basically, it was all about enhanced "stature" vis-a-vis the West, which he presumed Russia would naturally and rightly win as a result of the brilliant technical operation he had planned. As opposed to the external narratives -- about NATO expansion, denazification, and the supposed need to "protect" the Russian-speaking population, and all that garbage (that unfortunately a certain contingent on HN seems all too eager and happy to believe, pretty much exactly at face value). At the start of the invasion, anyway. By now things have changed dramatically of course, and his true position is probably a lot closer to your description.