Leaders | The botched invasion of Ukraine

How rotten is Russia’s army?

Vladimir Putin uses warfare to make up for Russia’s weaknesses. That is why he is so dangerous

THE MIGHT of the modern Russian army was supposed to show the world that President Vladimir Putin had restored his country to greatness after the humiliation of the Soviet collapse. Instead, poor progress and heavy losses in Ukraine have exposed deep flaws within Russia. For those threatened by Mr Putin’s aggression, a diminished army is a relief. Unfortunately, it also leaves a nuclear-armed power with a point to prove.

This article appeared in the Leaders section of the print edition under the headline “How rotten is Russia’s army?”

How rotten is Russia’s army?

From the April 30th 2022 edition

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