Russia and Iran have seen their political influence and economic fortunes spiral on a downward trajectory these last two years. From positions of global military and financial strength paralleled only by China and the USA, both these totalitarian regimes have been challenged to the point of potential internal combustion. The reasons for their declining fortunes are paradoxically similar and yet very different.

It would be impossible to give a detailed analysis for my conclusions, and this article will not attempt to do so therefore only verified generalizations are appropriate.

Let’s view Putin’s failed attempt to defeat and colonize Ukraine. When he embarked on this mission none of his military advisors would have considered that five years later that objective would not been achieved as Ukraine effectively countered though at some irreparable cost in terms of human suffering. Moreover, Ukrainian drones and covert operatives have severely damaged Russian infrastructure – ports, bridges, telecommunications, gas and electricity hubs, oil facilities, roads, weapons depots and more. Exacerbated by sanctions, the cost of war and domestic turmoil Putin’s government never would have considered nor envisaged the force of challenge let alone the damage that Russia is currently experiencing.

It was also apparent that Russia’s military power, much to the surprise of NATO and the Pentagon is below par – second rate. This needs explanation and elaboration. At the start of the war the Chinese tanks used by Russia........

© Blitz