[PGR88]

Are you actually going to suggest that Putin expected a prolonged war?

Don't deflect. You said many people predicted a short war and immediate victory for Russia. I never saw such claims among any relevant government officials or serious commentators in, Russia, USA, Germany or otherwise.

Putin and Lavrov certainly are not so stupid to have made such public claims. I don't think Joe Biden promised it either for Ukraine.

Who am I missing?

[BroJoeK]

PGR88 to Locomotive Breath: "You said many people predicted a short war and immediate victory for Russia.
I never saw such claims among any relevant government officials or serious commentators in, Russia, USA, Germany or otherwise."

Then you weren't paying attention.
Check out my post #74 above -- it is a quick and partial listing of quotes from the time period.
I well remember hearing many others then and since making similar claims.

[ansel12]

Here is video of some of Russia’s commentators telling the people the invasion would be over in days.
https://x.com/francis_scarr/status/1697553040071430306