Russia's strategic play: Control through political infiltration
For Russians, war is not just about military operations. It involves the deprivation of the attacked country's statehood and management capabilities. Moscow's priority is to place trusted individuals in key positions to take actual control over technical infrastructure. Meanwhile, those who do not favour Russia are eliminated.
After an attack on a specific country, Russia aims to change its government quickly. Moscow seeks to have the invaded state governed by a prime minister appointed by the Kremlin, a president, or the leader of the largest political party.
This is why the Russians aimed for the swift overthrow of President Volodymyr Zelensky—former Polish intelligence officer Maj. Robert Cheda emphasizes that governments not aligned with Russia are treated like criminals.
Russians can be particularly cruel to those on their list of enemies of the Russian nation. This includes foreign journalists, activists, oppositionists, politicians, and judges. There are four Poles on this extensive list.
These are people treated as enemies. They will be treated as criminals under Russian law, explains Maj. Cheda.
The former military officer points out that, on the one hand, Russia disables the country's decision-making process. On the other hand, it can influence, for instance, the process of civilian surrender.
Russian special services operate from the first days, even earlier
Maj. Cheda emphasizes that even before the aggression, Russian special services started operating in the attacked country. They infiltrate state structures and try to eliminate Russia's enemies.
Their objective also includes quickly acquiring critical infrastructure. This involves, for example, assuming directorial and managerial positions in seaports or airports. Notably, Russian services are not gentle in executing their plan.
Russians are not refined; they resort to brutality and mass actions, says Maj. Cheda.
