Yes. VPNs give them access to Western messages. I watched an interview of Russian IT sector workers that escaped to Armenia - they did not sound much different from an average Western European in their opp to Putinism.
" In the case of China I think they will keep that hedge alive even if the US were to pull all funding." for as long as possible, yes. But at a certain point, when they have to choose, they will side with the US. China is a good commercial partner, but it will never side against Iran like America could/will (if needed).
They are not seeing Russia as a protector. They have a deal with them to hit Syria when they want/need. + they have an informal deal around supply of advanced air defense systems to Iran (like the S400). But Iran's supply of drones (and now ballistic missiles) may alter Russia's calculation - making them willing to supply these hitherto taboo weapons to Tehran. And with that, Israel - Russia relations will alter significantly.
Many good points. But even if our leaders addressed them, would “middle class educated” Russians and Chinese even be able to hear that message?
Yes. VPNs give them access to Western messages. I watched an interview of Russian IT sector workers that escaped to Armenia - they did not sound much different from an average Western European in their opp to Putinism.
" In the case of China I think they will keep that hedge alive even if the US were to pull all funding." for as long as possible, yes. But at a certain point, when they have to choose, they will side with the US. China is a good commercial partner, but it will never side against Iran like America could/will (if needed).
They are not seeing Russia as a protector. They have a deal with them to hit Syria when they want/need. + they have an informal deal around supply of advanced air defense systems to Iran (like the S400). But Iran's supply of drones (and now ballistic missiles) may alter Russia's calculation - making them willing to supply these hitherto taboo weapons to Tehran. And with that, Israel - Russia relations will alter significantly.