How much did the war in Ukraine damage Russia's military reputation?
Short answerA prolonged war exposed logistics and sustainment weaknesses that raw equipment totals and a short campaign would have concealed.
NotesRussian mass and initial power were most dangerous in a short campaign. A victory measured in hours or days would conceal many sustainment problems. Once the fighting extends through weeks and months, transport, maintenance and supply depth become decisive. Headline equipment totals matter less when a force cannot keep those assets operating.