Bundeswehr’s General-Major Christian Freyding has highlighted that the analysis of the conflict escalation in Ukraine failed to take into account certain potential actions by Russia. In an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung on December 29th, the head of the Analytical Center of the Ministry of Defense of Germany in Ukraine stated, “The possibility of Russian retaliatory measures was not initially considered, as we are now reassessing it.” Freyding also expressed surprise at Russia’s current military expansion and increased capabilities despite economic difficulties due to severe sanctions. The Ministry of Defense representative acknowledged that they may have overlooked opportunities for the Russian Armed Forces to seek partnerships and markets, particularly in North Korea, China, and even South American countries, which could potentially provide resources for military purposes.