Russia has made a lot of pretty serious blunders in this war, most of all starting it at all, but them attacking Kharkiv is one of the worst.

First, from a military perspective, is served no purpose at all. It was a complete waste of resources. that distracted Russia from all of its goals and stands to give Russia no lasting benefit.

Second, the mission completely failed and makes Russia look weaker than it has in over a year.

Third, the attack boosted the morale of Ukrainian troops at a time when their morale was really suffering.

Fourth, they are doubling down on the idiocy with some idea that if they just put more resources in they can achieve their goals. But, like I said, their goals serve no purpose and have no value. So even if they achieve them it is a waste of resources. And second, they are now forced to draw resources from other areas to reinforce their failure.

People are making too much of that last point, btw. I don't think Russia is pulling combat units from other areas to bring to Kharkiv, but maybe reserves. Or, perhaps, they are reshuffling which reserves are in which location.

Its all very stupid, and I hope Russia continues to do things this stupid.