Interesting notion that runs counter to most more optimistic accounts about Russian incompetence, Ukrainian resolve, Putin madness, effectiveness of sanctions. Yes, Russia seems prepared for a long hard slog and seems willing to systematically destroy all of Ukraine (while knowing the West is afraid of their nukes and a direct NATO confrontation). I suppose though that all those billions in Western weapons will eventually come to bear and that the Ukraine, fighting for their lives, are capable of driving the Russians back. Also, the loss of Russian reputation and revenue has to have an effect. Russia/China seems ready to exist in total isolation from the rest of the world (which may be about to go into massive recession).