The strikes on Russian aircraft in Siberia rocked the elite in Russia, as it should. Ukraine pulled out a win against a self-confident state. The Goliath factor is no more.
However, Moscow has room for manoeuvre. Its military is strong. It has public support for its territorial integrity. Essentially, Russians feel anything is legitimate.
Moscow’s leadership needs to strategise. The future is bleak if it loses. President Putin looks weaker. It may seek his removal if things stay like this for much longer.
Any reaction is strong, but it has to work. Ukraine is seeking the end of a conflict. It’s unpredictable. The next tipping of the balance may make or break the battle itself.