As Russia and Ukraine put together for what may very well be the largest tank battle in Europe since World Struggle II, the way forward for Vladimir Putin’s conflict stays not possible to foretell. Giant-scale tank and artillery engagements within the flat open terrain of jap Ukraine could favor Moscow, and the sheer weight of Russia’s army machine may drive territorial positive factors, however different outcomes are attainable. Ukrainian braveness, tactical brilliance and entry to Western arms and gear may produce one other string of humiliating setbacks for Russia.
The worst-case situation for Mr. Putin can be for Russia’s conflict in Ukraine to finish in a complete army defeat, with the collapse of pro-Russian enclaves within the Donbas and Moldova and Ukraine’s integration into the West. Such a defeat can be greater than a private humiliation; it may very well be a career-ending setback for him. It might additionally ship a psychological and strategic shock to Russia’s standing and self-image. The course of Russian historical past would change.
