Dysfunction and self-deception stalk Kremlin but who will stand up to Putin?

Russia launched its war with unrealistic expectations but there is little sign of voices that could halt the conflict's relentless grind

Earlier this week, Russia's defence ministry acknowledged that young conscripts had been sent into battle and some taken prisoner.

The admission, notable in itself given Russia's careful attempts to control the narrative about the war, came just a day after President Vladimir Putin assured his nation in a video address that conscripts are not participating and will not participate" in the conflict. The backtracking prompted some to question whether the Russian leader lied in his statement or was simply provided inaccurate information.