Does Putin fear making peace because those who have survived his meat grinder war demand a reason for their sacrifice? But what do those who haven't died yet think?
Russian President Vladimir Putin is in no hurry to sign an agreement that could bring him a mob, many of whom may be embittered that they lost their compatriots, their youth and, nearly, their lives for the sake of a “botched” settlement.
That's a problem when you claim you are at war with NATO, Nazis, and the Devil himself. How do you compromise with that level of threat?
But Putin is afraid of having these soldiers at home where they might seek revenge on him. Putin would rather his troops keep dying so they remain inside his tent pissing out than the reverse.
Russian fatalities and casualties have been extraordinary. Russia will likely hit the 1 million casualty mark in the summer of 2025—a stunning and grizzly milestone. Overall, a high of 250,000 Russian soldiers have died in Ukraine, with over 950,000 total Russian casualties, a sign of Putin’s blatant disregard for his soldiers. ...
Ukrainian fatality rates are also high at between 60,000 and 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed, with a total of 400,000 casualties (which include both killed and wounded).
The low end estimate for Russia is 200,000 dead.
The solution for Putin is clear. Make real peace with Ukraine and NATO. Then send his veteran troops to the eastern front to face the Chinese hordes in defense of Russia's Far East conquests that China may one day insist it must get back.
If European Russia is a safe rear area, Putin doesn't need to station many troops there where they might want revenge on Putin.
NOTE: ISW updates continue here. Also, I put war-related links and commentary in the Weekend Data Dump.
NOTE: You may also read my posts on Substack, at The Dignified Rant: Evolved.
NOTE: I made the image with Bing. I'm honestly shocked it followed my request: "a color photograph of an Aztec king on top of a pyramid during human sacrifice ceremonies"
