Russia cornered

THERE is a real possibility that Russia may be defeated in the war in Ukraine, due to the enormous losses inflicted on the battlefield.

For military and security analysts like myself, the speed and momentum of the Ukrainian counter- offensive has taken everyone by surprise.

However, it demonstrates wider shortcomings of the Russian military machine.

The West is supplying the Ukrainians with sophisticated military hardware and intelligence, which has enabled them to make gains.

This has become a proxy war of the West, and specifically Nato, against Russia.

Far from the image of the Soviet military machine during the Cold War as one of the most powerful in Europe, this Russian army is made up largely of conscripts who are ill-equipped, with poor logistics and a lack of training.

They are suffering horrendous casualties and being used as cannon fodder by their generals. Morale is extremely low.

President Putin may try to consolidate in the East and then begin talks, or may escalate matters by declaring war. If Russia sticks to the same course, its military leadership may have no option but to admit defeat on the battlefield. Dr OLIVER B. STEWARD,

Norwich, Norfolk. THE Ukrainian army has retaken some towns in the East. Locals have come out of their homes in droves, shaking hands, hugging and kissing their soldiers. This is what liberation looks like.

JAMES WIGNALL, Accrington, Lancs.