Consider This from NPR Russia's Illegal Annexation Ushers In A Dangerous New Phase Of The War
Sep 30, 2022
Dara Massicot, a Russian military analyst at the RAND Corporation, shares her insights on Putin's recent annexation of four Ukrainian territories. She argues that this bold move leaves Putin with limited options and signals the onset of a perilous new phase in the conflict. The discussion touches on the implications of coerced referendums and the resulting chaos in the annexed regions. Massicot emphasizes the risk of backlash against Russian leadership and the complexities that arise in peace negotiations as the war continues to evolve.
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Forced Voting
- Andrey Boryarsky's sister, living in Russian-occupied Berdiansk, was forced to vote yes in the referendum.
- She wanted to vote no, but armed guards forced her to choose yes, highlighting the coercive nature of the process.
Fleeing and Fear of Mobilization
- Ablamit, a 62-year-old Ukrainian, fled the occupied territory after the referendum.
- His son was prevented from leaving, raising concerns about forced mobilization into the Russian army.
Russia's Annexation Strategy
- Dara Massicot suggests Russia aims to annex territories to force a ceasefire on their terms.
- Russia's military needs time to recover, making this a strategic move, despite not fully controlling the annexed areas.