Originally Posted by
NutLoose
I mean as in they lose so much armour, aircraft and materials and are so heavily sanctioned that they never ever consider this course of action ever again.
Sadly, as an uninformed observer, it would appear that initially, Russia will quickly overwhelm Ukrainian forces.
I'd predict early losses would be bearable for them.
I think they'll smash the Ukraine airforce.
Ukraine manpads aren't useful against anything flying above FL15-20.
Ukraine airbases will be put out of action, and aircraft destroyed on the ground or in the air.
Russia has overwhelming superiority in troops and tank numbers.
Do they care if they lose a few in the opening hours?
Nyet comrade.
I think the real cost to Russian would probably be an ongoing Chechnya like occupation.
An ugly, cold meat grinder on their western border over coming weeks, months and possibly years that consumes soldiers as young Russian boys and girls are picked off by snipers from the windows of shattered buildings.
Does Vladimir
Vladimirovich care about that?
Probably not.