Russia-Ukraine War (Threadbanned in op)

I think a lot depends on Ukrainian aims and ambitions. They've taken large losses and extensive damage. The eastern parts of their state are important to them. In for a penny, in for a pound. With support from Europe and USA and others, they can minimise their own losses, wage a war of attrition on the Russian military resources inc strikes across the border. Then seize the day when the opportunity eventually arises. Russian economy is on a war footing but it still has to function as a state and look after the basic needs of it's proletariat. Can they keep it up?

On the other hand, Ukraine might settle for some present day 'borders' on condition of guaranteed access to the EU and NATO with large scale investments from the West to rebuild and arm etc.

Can you explain what the US \ The West should have done then, how this would have been done in such as way that Russia would not react, and that Ukraine's sovereignty and independence could have been guaranteed and protected from Russian threats and domination?

Otherwise, we can assume this is just kneejerk anti-US student politics without foundation or merit.

And before the usually crowd say 'what use are patriot systems if they don't have missiles'

It would be nice to start seeing more Russian planes being shot down, this time over Russia!

https://united24media.com/latest-news/us-prioritizes-sending-patriot-missiles-to-ukraine-over-switzerland-813

Vietnam's position on Russia is similar to that of China or Hungary.

They are happy to spout pro-Russian platitudes but when it comes down to cold, hard cash, their strategic interests are aligned with the USA (and EU).

North Korea, Syria or Iran don't have that option so we can say they are the only true allies of Russia. And the potato farmer in Minsk of course. What a club to be in!

Yes, but you will notice that these parts of Moscow you mention, are never seen in these walk-around type vid's, Yes, Putins war is sucking every available ruble out if the economy, leaving very little even for basic maintenance, not even a lick of paint, The 7 Sisters being a prime example.

"North Korea, Syria or Iran don't have that option so we can say they are the only true allies of Russia"

Are you forgetting Trump and the flies buzzing round his mound of shite?

Is that one reason Putin did it?(whatever it is he actually did)

An ally against China?

I'd say at this stage Putin will go where ever he can for aid. They're sending lads to the front now on scramblers and desert cross vehicles (golf buggies with motor engines) so it could be a case of asking former soviet allies for any extra bit of gear.

I don't know about N Korea but the Soviets played the Vietnamese off China after the Sino-Soviet war.

I wasn't referring to individuals. Even with Trump as President (God forbid), the USA would never be formally aligned with Russia.

You are confusing tactical cooperation (against the Taliban and Al Quaeda) with full strategic partnership. Not the same thing at all.

I was referring to Trump's "Republican" party and not formal alliances (yet).

As we are ,he is their ally but will not admit it as it might lose him the election.

Just the odd nod and a wink so far.

I think if he gets in he will want to carve up Europe btw him and his mates.

Wouldn't be unprecedented .

The fact that in any discussions Russia engages in about peace or talk's or treatys' etc, top of the list of preconditions before talks can even begin is the " all sanctions must be lifted". For sure, Russia is feeling full effects of them, despite Putins best efforts to persuade the world that they are not having any effect