If it wasn't for the devastation and loss of life on both sides I'd almost believe their attempt to capture Kiev was just a ploy so that when they eventually pulled back to the east and south, even some Ukrainians may be relieved that that's all they have taken. Old politicians trick.

Considering the cluster **** it has been though I think they just badly misjudged the resistance, the level of weaponry being supplied and the strength of their own forces.

This guy on TV was given pretty decent airtime. Can only assume it was agreed that these were the points he would make.