So… tactically, they’re in a real mess. (At least it appears they could be, with the correct- and limited- application of pressure)

Strategically, they’re way beyond being in a mess.

I have to admit… I don’t get it. If they had gone for Tbilisi, or the pipeline, or ANYTHING, I can acknowledge a tangible goal. Something. But now? Lots of Russians and Cossacks wandering aimlessly through Georgia, pillaging and burning. Was that the goal?

As it stands now, I see no upside for Putin here. Was it just a personal vendetta? Was it really just that simple?