Is Putin preparing the Russian people for defeat in Ukraine??

[Bev54]

There has apparently been a crisis manual document leaked in Russia, that prepares the Kremlin propagandists on how to deal with the fallout of the loss in Ukraine, in explaining it to the people. Not sure if this is a head fake or for real. It is being reported by different outlets, a couple of the articles are below:

https://www.thedailybeast.com/vladimir-putin-grooms-russians-for-ukraine-war-loss-in-leaked-propaganda-manual

https://radaronline.com/p/vladimir-putin-preparing-russia-defeat-ukraine-leaked-crisis-manual/

[Igel]

1. My gut says "no".

At best (or worst) he's preparing the pop for a temporary setback prior to saying, "You must prepare for victory, suffer for victory!"

Suspicion that he was preparing the pop for defeat would be very, very bad for him while spending time in front of windows.

Honor says that bowing before an indefatigable enemy is no dishonor--but grounds for ressentiment and eventual honor-war--but Russia's billed as so far superior that this can't happen. Perhaps Putin would be the 3rd Rome's Passover saacrifice, but I don't see it.

[Arthur_Frain]

2. There's no upside to a defeat for Putin.

He will lose what control he has if he appears vulnerable.