That's gonna enrage the Russian ultra nationalists. All these sanctions, all these economic damage, all these death and loss of equipment, for a lackluster landgrab which will not be recognized by the international community...
Even if Russia backs off right now, the sanctions are likely here to stay,
Let's say you are growing up within Russia and have no access to news or information to other sources, this piece would work for you.
Putin wanted this war. In his country, he is painted as a saviour and a symbol of Russian strength, 百战百胜 kind of leader. Whenever he threatens with action, he doesn't get what he wants, he doesn't blink and doubles down. This situation isn't different, except - He betted big against something he severely underestimated.
So when Krelim reduces the engagement, it is clear as sky for anyone who have access to more information than a local Russian that Putin is cutting his loses. This would be akin to a WSB ape who went in peak GME, bought the dip and now liquidating part of it to put into something sensible.
Not for the poor folks who, against their will, were brought up in a system that teaches them to embrace whatever the Krelim told them though. These guys are the poor folks of whom a financial advisor sold them unit trusts with 99% GME, has not see the price movement, and occasionally shared with only the good news.
And that's the danger of propaganda and media. And this is also why I personally think that when consuming news, also understand that who is the targeted audience.
Myself, I'm glad there's no further escalation with chemical or nuclear weapons
abit confusing
