From: Maia Mikhaluk in Kyiv 1242nd day.
putin is risking everything by continuing his irrational war in Ukraine — The Washington Post
A new Washington Post article highlights how putin’s obsession with prolonging the war — even as Trump calls for “peace” — is costing ruzzia dearly.
By pressing on with aggression, the kremilin has effectively accepted the loss of international influence and former allies. Western energy markets, which once received 49% of ruzzian oil and 74% of its gas, are now closed. Meanwhile, 40% of moscow’s budget is being funneled into the war, the article reports.
Expert Michael Kimmage explains that putin is willing to make such sacrifices partly due to his fear of NATO expansion — which has already happened, with Finland and Sweden joining. But more importantly, Kimmage argues, is putin’s desire to punish Ukraine for refusing to become submissive and obedient like Belarus.
And so, the war drags on — irrational, devastating, and increasingly isolating for ruzzia.
Voice of Ukraine 