Putin promised not to kill Zelenskyy, former Israeli prime minister says
NBCJUL 2023
Day 349: Fighting Intensifies in East as Russia Prepares for Possible Offensive
Image copyright: Reuters [via BBC]
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
In attempting to take Bakhmut, Russian forces have used scorched earth tactics and turned the once-popular tourist destination into a hell-on-earth. The Kremlin is so hungry for any success that it's willing to go to any length to take the city — even if it's been turned to rubble.
Pro-Russia narrative
If Russian forces take control of Bakhmut, it would be a devastating loss for Ukraine. Not only has Ukraine lost hundreds of troops in trying to retain the city, but this operation would also enable Russia to continue its advance into key areas of Donetsk, including Slovyansk and Kramatorsk.
Metaculus Prediction
There is a 40% chance that at least 100,000 Russian soldiers will be killed in the Russo-Ukrainian war before 2024, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
