Russia’s unprovoked assault on Ukraine has been shocking, incompetently waged so far and brutal. But it has not been “shock and awe” as many have suggested.

The country’s initial offensive was based on an exaggeration of its ability to send armored forces racing into Ukraine to occupy Kyiv. This grossly underestimated Ukraine’s determination to resist. Then the Russians neglected logistics and failed to protect mechanized units with infantry and air power.

West Point would flunk a cadet for producing such a plan.