The KGB Oracle Forums General Public Discussion (SPECIAL ACCESS) KGB Political Debate Central Russian invasion of Ukraine and World War 3

While I too would like to see Rand 16 (because I know this is more likely than progressive 16), if that happens it will likely be repeat of Obama's presidency in terms of GOP (now with Dems added) establishment obstructionism.

Now that Russian economy crashed, Putin is doubling-down on Ukraine. He moved 'no flag' regular troops back into the fray and pushing back Ukrainian army and volunteers. Some rumbling "To Odessa and Kiev" heard from Kremlin's upper echelons.

Economist on escalation in Ukraine

Economist on Putin's plans

PDF Brookings on Ukraine policy

New Minsk agreement signed, my money is that peace won't hold.

Russian critic assassinated for investigating Russian involvement in Ukraine.

To be honest I am surprised Putin hasn't been taken out.
He is costing the elites a lot of money.

Putin has cultivated an environment where the next best alternative is far worse.

Plus Russian intelligence and security services largely back him, and enjoy immense influence in his regime. As long as this holds true, he will be very hard to get to.