What would be the point of Russia fighting on at all if not to take more of Ukraine territory? They couldn’t be just standing still at the front lines to bleed the Ukes to death of manpower could they? Why?
“What would be the point of Russia fighting on at all if not to take more of Ukraine territory?”
Russia’s current goal is the destruction of Ukraine’s military forces. Taking and giving land just provides the playing field. Ukraine’s military is famous for allowing its troops to be encircled and mauled and Russia loves that. The idea is for the other side to run out of sufficient soldiers.
This has nothing to do with the fighting ability and bravery of Ukraine’s soldiers, which is very high. Russia is mobile, Ukraine is in fixed positions. Very old situation and the outcomes are well established. Defense loses. Once the army is defeated, you take whatever land you want, if you want.
Once that is accomplished, if you want land, you just march in, put up your flags and start your governance with military occupation.