Another little item that makes you wonder: Is it possible Ukraine can win?

[Tomconroy]

Link to tweet

[genxlib]

1. I am sure they can work out a barter system

I am thinking one chicken for one tank... but its going to cost you that rifle for a side of potatoes

I am no expert on russian military rations but that looks like it was made for the commercial market. I can't believe the military would use something as decorated, shiny and flimsy as that.

US MREs are packaged in plane drab colored plastic bags with minimal printing. You can buy commercial equivalents that are used for survivalists and/or more non-military ventures. I have eaten plenty of both kinds on Search and Rescue missions for FEMA

[Dan]

2. Probably need to define "win".

Ukraine can probably deny Russia from taking total control over Ukraine.

Ukraine can involve Russia with an insurgency that would require significant amounts of resources on Russia’s part in an effort to control Ukraine.

Ukraine (bad idea) can decide to take the war to Russia via individual acts of terror on Russian soil.

Ukraine can cause an escalation of this war by preventing a Russian win - forcing Putin to do what Putin does, escalating the conflict.

I read that Putin now has 16,000 volunteers from the Middle East that he plans to use against the Ukraine. I suspect that this will force NATO to reconsider the level of support for Ukraine, providing more and this is another potential escalation.

With enough support, Ukraine has shown that they are a force to be recognized - (smiling) - with enough support looks like Ukraine can conquer Russia.

My thoughts.

[Tomconroy]

3. On the BBC they showed Putin's call for foreign volunteers.

They translated his words. He said they were welcome, particularly if they don't expect to get paid.
Can you say cannon fodder?

[EndlessWire]

4. Also, if they don't expect to eat. n/t

[uponit7771]

5. +1, ... or live long

[EndlessWire]

6. To keep to the subject

I originally thought they would be mowed over in 3 days. Now, I am astonished. They will still need help. If Belarus stays out, they have a chance. Of the 16,000 foreign fighters, the motivation is questionable. We have fighters who are going in because they are pissed at what Russia is doing. If you are not going to get paid much, and suffer extraordinarily in fighting, then why would you be motivated to fly into Ukraine and fight for Putin? Because of all he's done for you?

Some people are professional mercenaries, and fighting is what they do. But, Putin's war is a mess, NATO might show up, and why bother for the pittance that Russia seems to be offering? And, in winter?

"What if they gave a war and nobody came?"