« My speculation is he wants to signal to Russia that he is supporting it more firmly, so that Russia continues fighting the war in Ukraine, and doesn't agree to peace, unless it is a peace advantageous to Russia (i.e. one where rump Ukraine is neutral and can thus be easily invaded by Russia at a future date).»
A peace advantageous to Russia might also cause further rifts between the US and Europe. If somehow Putin agreed to humiliating concessions and did it all for nothing, that would be a very theoretical outcome, that could make us Westerners all hold hands again. Guess China is also hedging against such a long shot.
« My speculation is he wants to signal to Russia that he is supporting it more firmly, so that Russia continues fighting the war in Ukraine, and doesn't agree to peace, unless it is a peace advantageous to Russia (i.e. one where rump Ukraine is neutral and can thus be easily invaded by Russia at a future date).»
A peace advantageous to Russia might also cause further rifts between the US and Europe. If somehow Putin agreed to humiliating concessions and did it all for nothing, that would be a very theoretical outcome, that could make us Westerners all hold hands again. Guess China is also hedging against such a long shot.
Funny how all the armies that went to bullpups are going away from them.