See how in your article no where does he state that the russian state is stronger or more capable then before the war?

Numerous other articles I linked state that, including the fact that both Russian economy and military industry have greatly expanded. It's pretty obvious that Russian army couldn't grow without that happening.

The only one doing cherry picking here is you. I provided numerous sources that all substantiate different aspects of the bigger picture. You on the other hand, found an article that regurgitates what you want to be true, which is at odds with all the available evidence.

It's pretty clear that I'm not going to convince you of anything here, but good news is that reality has a way of asserting itself. So, you'll have to start engaging with the real world before long. Best of luck to you.