Cohesion and disintegration in the Russian army, part four: the experience of war

Brian M Downing  The view presented here in parts 1-3 is that the Russian army is flawed. Some 25% of its troops are poorly-trained and indifferently-motivated conscripts who do not fit well with dedicated regulars. Promotions from field grade to general staff are often based on political loyalties not professional Read More …

Trump and the generals in troubling times 

Brian M Downing The military is a powerful national institution that traditionally stays out of politics. Generals and admirals respect institutional norms almost as much as they do the Constitution. One of the norms says to avoid criticizing presidents, especially while on active duty.  There’ve been notable exceptions. MacArthur had Read More …