I certainly agree that Western sources are more credible because there's a lot of competition for the facts. Also, there is visible evidence of the Moskva, for example.

Intelligence about what Putin is doing behind closed doors is quite another thing entirely. I doubt the FSB and many inside the Kremlin have no idea what Putin's doing. If Western Intelligence could talk to such people they could find out other things--like WTF Putin. Why!!! ;) Yes, the unreality of the Putin Regime is hard to ignore, like the recent CSTO "Summit" with Putin and his 5 lapdogs.

A more realistic assessment would be appreciated about Russian journalists (state run) and vloggers saying "the whole world is against us", "someone should be fired for the bridge fiasco" and "we can't train enough men to fight against those who will die for their country" recent events. Is Russia setting the stage for a cease-fire? Or is state-run media turning against Putin? On those important questions U.S. intelligence says nothing.