Russian lawmakers authorize Putin to use military force outside the country

[Labster]

In a way, I feel sorry for Lukashenko.  It has to be obvious to him that Russia is going to lose, and putting his own army in increases the chance of being overthrown.  But without Russian support, it increases his risk of being overthrown.  The optimal path for him remaining a petty dictator is probably exactly what he is doing: assist Russia in the slowest, most incompetent way possible.  This will work as long as Russia is distracted, which probably means "long enough".  Meanwhile, he can help his army "get organized" by playing Tropico and wishing he was dictator of somewhere warmer and less invadable.

Americans: Remember back when we were afraid of the Russian Army?