Pescov just released a statement saying that Russia’s position on an energy ceasefire is unchanged. This has been the position that Russia has previously taken. This has been the position Russia has taken despite having 51% of its refining capacity taken offline by Ukraine. This has been the position taken by Russia despite the fact that most Russians now are standing in line to purchase gasoline.
What should be Ukraine’s position?
Ukraine needs to double down on the refinery hits. The targeting of Russia’s oil and gas infrastructure has been the most successful operation by Ukraine during this war. It is eliminating Russia’s ability to finance the war. It is allowing Russian citizens to experience part of the disruptions caused by the war. And it is providing much-needed morale boost to Ukrainians who themselves are experiencing the hardships brought about by this war.
We know that Russia has no ability to defend their oil and gas infrastructure. They lacked the troops. They lack the anti-missile defenses. All Russia can do is sit there and take it.
We know that it is causing great pain to Russia, otherwise Russia would not be expressing willingness and interest in renewing peace negotiations. But at the same time, Ukraine must deal with an element of pride.
Putin’s pride.
Putin’s heart bride from having Ukraine destroy his oil and gas infrastructure and not being able to do anything about it. Ukraine needs to realize that Russia may keep fighting even though it knows it will eventually lose. Not because this is a rational decision. Bubba cause, this is a decision being made out of Putin’s hurt pride.
quora.com
