Russian convicts recruited to fight in Ukraine were warned they'd be shot if they deserted. One who did was returned to Russia — and was killed with a sledgehammer instead.
Business InsiderDec 25, 2022
Day 299: Putin Heads to Belarus as Russian Drones Again Rock Kyiv
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Image copyright: AP Photos [via AP News]
The Facts
Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin on Monday headed to Belarus for a "working trip," sparking fears that he intends to pressure Belarusian president — Alexander Lukashenko — to join his military campaign in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, Russia again launched a wave of pre-dawn drone attacks on Kyiv. City officials said damage was inflicted in the districts of Solomianskyi and Shevchenkyvskyi, and that an unspecified infrastructure facility was hit. There were no reports of civilian casualties.
The Spin
Narrative A
Russia is undoubtedly planning to step up its attacks and widen its aggression against Ukraine in the New Year. Due to the weakened state of Moscow's forces, Russia's military aims will necessitate greater involvement from the armed forces of Belarus.
Narrative B
The Belarusian Pres. has repeatedly said he will not commit forces to fight in Ukraine and, even if reinforced by Belarus, Russia lacks the capability to plan and execute a large-scale military offensive in the coming months.
