KIEV – It seems to have played out exactly as Western powers hoped: sanctions and falling oil prices have hit Russia hard, presumably making Moscow more willing to compromise on the conflict in Ukraine.But as is often the case with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the reality is far more complex.Despite its economic woes Russia still holds a number of trump cards in the Ukraine crisis and may be betting on the fact that the ex-Soviet republic to its west is in even worse straits, analysts say.”If it’s a race to the bottom, then Ukraine will get there much faster than …read more
Source: AsiaOne
