I expect there might be genuine panic that Russia will open up another front from Belarus and threaten Kiev again.
Russia doesn't need this; it would have to redeploy additional troops. The front line there is 1,500 kilometers long. It would take about 300,000 men just to hold it. Nor does Lukashenko need this; Ukraine would simply overwhelm Belarus with drones.
And that video was interesting, it’s good to see how much of Russia still retains so much Soviet imagery.
What surprised me was that this memorial was built in 2017. Inscribed on it is an expression of gratitude to the USSR from grateful descendants! This is the first time I’ve ever seen anything like this in Russia. You probably realize now just how much better people living beyond the Urals had it under the USSR—if they still miss it so intensely to this day! Complete devastation reigns there now.
While I know we disagree on China, I do think that China, Vietnam, and DPRK being major allies and trading partners will help nudge people in the right direction. Now people can travel there easily, see how things are for themselves, and they will ask natural questions after that.
Yes, I can see that the process has begun—right before my very eyes, thoughtful Westerners are starting to see the light!
You have to admit that the war in Ukraine gave it the push it needed, don't you?