**Russia Threatens to Fight “Forever” Despite Heavy Losses**
In a recent meeting between Ukrainian and Russian negotiators, Russia’s presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky made some alarming statements. He told the Ukrainian delegation that Russia is ready to fight for “a year, two, three—however long it takes,” and even threatened to keep fighting “forever.” These remarks were made during a rare face-to-face meeting in Istanbul, which resulted in a 1,000-for-1,000 prisoner exchange agreement.
But what’s striking about Medinsky’s statements is that they seem detached from reality. Russia has already suffered nearly one million casualties, including over 10,800 tanks and 22,500 armored fighting vehicles lost in Ukraine. This heavy loss of equipment and human life suggests that the idea of a “forever war” may be more like a pipedream.
**Russia’s Demands Undermine Ceasefire Efforts**
The Russian delegation made some unreasonable demands during the meeting, including the withdrawal of all Ukrainian forces from four regions claimed by Moscow. They also threatened to seize two more regions, Kharkiv and Sumy. These proposals were described as “detached from reality” by a source.
Ukrainian officials have expressed skepticism about Russia’s willingness to negotiate in good faith. Despite the prisoner swap agreement, neither side publicly mentioned any threats following the talks. It seems like Russia is trying to create a narrative that they are committed to peace talks, but their actual demands and actions suggest otherwise.
**Heavy Losses Undercut “Forever War” Rhetoric**
The scale of attrition in Russia’s military suggests that they may not be as ready to fight indefinitely as Medinsky claims. With over 1 million casualties, including nearly a thousand soldiers killed or injured every day, it’s clear that Russia is taking a heavy toll.
Furthermore, Russia’s total population of around 146 million means that they have limited pool of eligible combat personnel. This makes it even more surprising that Medinsky would suggest fighting “forever.” It seems like he’s trying to spin a narrative that doesn’t quite add up to the harsh realities on the ground.
**Tactical Improvisation and Equipment Shortages**
As Russia continues to suffer heavy losses, they’re forced to rely on makeshift solutions. Ukrainian drones have become a thorn in their side, making them increasingly rely on scooters and motorcycles for battlefield mobility. This is not only driven by equipment shortages but also the need to evade those pesky drones.
Despite these efforts, Russian forces are struggling to gain traction against Ukrainian defenders in Avdiivka. It seems like they’re trying to create a “cauldron” around Ukrainian forces, but acknowledged that it’s unlikely to immediately cut off Ukrainian forces in the city.
**Conclusion**
Russia’s threats and demands during peace talks seem designed to undermine ceasefire efforts rather than genuinely pursue a peaceful resolution. Their heavy losses and equipment shortages suggest that they may not be as ready to fight indefinitely as Medinsky claims. As Ukraine continues to resist Russian aggression, it remains unclear when or if Russia will shift its strategy from war to peace.
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