It may have to scale back its offensive in Ukraine
The Kremlin wants to barter the American reporter for its spies
With thousands stranded, suspicion falls on Russia or Iran
Courting the EU and America without alienating Russia is a difficult trick
But preserving good relations with America was more important
Too few to beat Russia’s air force, but a strong symbolic start
Kremlin troops are making gains in the Donbas region
The second battle of Kursk is raging
The surprise attack comes as Ukraine is under pressure in the Donbas
It could dig in, pull back or grab more as a bargaining chip