The core Western error in dealing with Russia is mirror imaging—evaluating Putin as if he were a democratic leader subject to public opinion, a free press, electoral accountability, and legal constraints—when in fact he operates under no such constraints and can portray any outcome as victory through propaganda, making concepts like 'saving face' strategically irrelevant.
causalpending
Evidence Quote
“the idea that we we well we not me personally but quite many of my colleagues from other countries they tend to evaluate Putin uh as if he were one of us this is mirror Imaging...he does not have to face neither his population no Free Press no opposition no a fair trial...if he wants to portray something as victory in his propaganda uh media that he will be very successful”
Source
Battlegrounds w/ H.R. McMaster | Lithuania: On the Frontline of European Security— Hoover InstitutionCreated: 8/11/2026, 4:44:48 AM
My Notes
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