Section: RAND (USA)
Putin’s Silence on Kursk Offensive Might Be a Giant Mistake
Throughout his presidency, Vladimir Putin has repeatedly failed to project leadership qualities in times of crisis. His relative silence on Ukraine’s Kursk offensive has led to public criticism, even from supporters. This pattern of evasion undermines trust and complicates his leadership approach. …read more Source::...
The Kursk Offensive: Triumph or Tragedy in the Making?
Ukraine’s Kursk operation is potentially a game-changing move. But it could lead to escalation, including increased Russian use of chemical weapons. …read more Source::...
Ukraine’s ‘Masterstroke’ Kursk Offensive Is About Geometry, not Geography
Ukraine’s Kursk offensive was a tactical masterstroke that changed the geometry of the battlefield by extending Russian lines and obliging them to rethink their force allocation assumptions. This changes the military calculus. …read more Source::...
Ukraine’s Kursk Incursion: Another Nail in the Coffin of Putin’s Regime?
Ukraine’s bold Kursk operation challenges Putin’s war narrative and exposes domestic vulnerabilities. While unlikely to collapse Putin’s regime, the symbolic impact of Ukrainian advances into Russian territory erodes its foundation and boosts Ukraine’s resolve. …read more Source::...
Ukraine May Be Winning the Information War in Kursk
Ukraine’s Kursk offensive has the potential to positively influence Western perceptions, sustain funding and material support for Ukraine, and degrade Russian domestic support for the war. This strategic gamble in the information space might pay off. …read more Source::...
Russia Explained: What Americans Need to Know
Among the many international issues confronting the candidates for U.S. president and the American electorate in this fall’s election is the U.S. strategic posture with regard to Russia, its aggression against Ukraine, and the policies of its leader, Vladimir Putin. Two RAND experts explore a range of critical issues that will confront the...
Ukraine Needs a New Storyline
Wars have simple strategic storylines. Ukraine, lacking a clear narrative, needs one to sustain Western support. The recent Kursk counteroffensive offers a reset, but Kyiv must articulate a plan. …read more Source::...
How to Make the Most of the Kursk Gambit
Ukraine’s bold incursion into Russia’s Kursk region may not be enough to deliver an absolute military victory for Kyiv. However, the Kursk offensive may work to Ukraine’s advantage at the negotiating table. …read more Source::...
Ukraine, Kursk, and the Importance of Lines of Operation in History
Ukraine’s bold incursion into Kursk mirrors historic tactics using interior lines. To withstand Russia’s response, Ukraine must consolidate forces, leveraging the rapid reinforcement and supply advantages interior lines provide. …read more Source::...
Ukraine Has Found a Path to Victory
Ukraine has pulled off an operation that could buy time to regenerate and reequip its forces. The Kursk incursion puts in doubt Russia’s ability to launch any major offensives for the rest of the year. Given sufficient Western aid, Kyiv could have the capability to begin restoring its territory in 2025. …read more Source::...
