The author writes as one of many officers who studied at a military higher school in Soviet Ukraine, graduated, and served in its armed forces. He says this background gives him a better understanding of war, combat, offensives and defensive operations than ordinary citizens. He uses that knowledge and experience to look at the current Russia-Ukraine war and assess the operational situation. He also says he is interested in the history of war and military art, especially the history of the Soviet army. The headline states that Donbass should not be given to Russia under any circumstances.