DIY-HP-LED
Well-Known Member
I'm sure it has all been mapped out, the objective now is to destroy Vlad and his circle, not Russia, we will just have to pick up the pieces afterwards. Military pressure must also be carefully applied for more immediate effect and to drain the treasury.View attachment 5095090
I've heard some GQP types talk as if the sanctions carve-out for energy imports from Russia is a scandal and a shame. I don't think those critics understand what sanctions are supposed to do. Objectives are many but the main one is to degrade Russia's ability to wage war in the 21st century. Constraints on sanctions are also many but two stand out: keep economic recovery from the pandemic on track and don't hurt the little guys in Russia.
So, this bit about sanctions carve-outs for Russian energy imports into the US and EU. Doing that reduces immediate effects of trade sanctions on the Russian economy. Basically, 70% of Russian exports will proceed. A large fraction of the remaining exports are wiped out but not a devastating blow to either Russia or the West. Europe continues get the energy supplies they need and the US gets the benefit of diversification that the relatively small amount of energy from Russia provides. For now.
The Biden administration and EU can do more later. This gives leverage in negotiation. If Vlaldimir Putin becomes more like Vlad the Impaler then stiffer sanctions can be applied. This is how to conduct negotiation with a psychopath. Never bargain from weakness. Take action and hold options in reserve to let them know there will be consequences for their actions.
I'm hearing reports of operational Russian vehicles abandoned by Russian conscripts on a large scale basis. If this keeps up the Russians will provide the Ukrainians with all the equipment they need! Moral is poor among a conscript army that just suffered a massive pay cut in an unpopular war. Vlad's entire army grew up with the internet and cellphones, many are very connected 19 year old's who don't get news from state TV.