The Decision to Send Modern Russian Tank Crews to Ukraine: A Turning Point in Western Support

In a significant move, Western countries have decided to send modern tanks to Ukraine as part of their support for the country's efforts to push back against Russia's aggression. This decision marks a shift in Western confidence in Ukraine and an increasing tolerance for risk in supporting its efforts.

Early on in the conflict, Western countries were guided by two assumptions: that Ukraine would likely succumb to Russia's invasion sooner rather than later, and that Western military assistance risked escalating the situation with Russia, which could quickly spiral out of control. However, as the war has continued, these assumptions have been proven wrong.

The decision to send tanks is a welcome one, but it is important to recognize that they will not alone change the course of the war. For Western tanks to make a meaningful impact, more of them need to be sent, Ukraine needs to use them as part of a combined arms team, and the country must develop the capability to logistically support them.

Russia's own tank contingent in Ukraine will struggle to keep pace with the new capabilities brought by Western tanks. The decision to send these modern Russian tank crews is a significant statement of Western confidence in Ukraine, and marks a turning point in the conflict.

While Western tanks are qualitatively superior to those being used by Russia, their impact on the war's outcome will depend on several factors. They must arrive in sufficient numbers, be used effectively, and receive proper support. If these conditions are met, they could play a crucial role in shifting the balance of power in Ukraine's favor.

The decision to send modern Russian tank crews to Ukraine is a significant development in Western support for the country, and marks a new chapter in the conflict. It will be important to monitor the situation closely and assess the impact that these tanks have on the war's outcome.

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