Sure, they can do small attacks. But if their strategy is to defeat the Entente in the field, then big attacks are required. And since one of the two quickest ways to exit the war would appear to be to defeat the Entente in the field, then they need to go big at some point in 1918. (The other big method is to turn to the U-boats, but, you know...)
No, the Entente does not have no hope of American support ever, because they do not know the future. We can handwave that the US never actually joins the war or offers financial support, but we cannot handwave the Entente hope of that happening based on the hostility previously shown by the US to Germany.
Emphasis on "faith". They know that the blockade is hurting Germany. Even if there is no expectation of imminent revolution or collapse, then they will hope for it in the medium term while they sit on the defensive, during which time the blockade is the Entente's only offensive strategy. Again, the Entente does not know the future and will hope that the blockade works. They do not need to be right.
Again, no, your interpretation of the German situation is all wrong. Sitting there occupying territory is not useful, Germany needs to actually win the war, and that requires attacking. It's not just an absurd strategy, it's alien to the military mindset of the day.
"We finally have a decisive advantage in the West and can win the war in one month if we attack!"
"Agreed. Which is why my plan is to do... nothing!"
Sorry, but it's nonsense.
No, the Entente does not have no hope of American support ever, because they do not know the future. We can handwave that the US never actually joins the war or offers financial support, but we cannot handwave the Entente hope of that happening based on the hostility previously shown by the US to Germany.
Emphasis on "faith". They know that the blockade is hurting Germany. Even if there is no expectation of imminent revolution or collapse, then they will hope for it in the medium term while they sit on the defensive, during which time the blockade is the Entente's only offensive strategy. Again, the Entente does not know the future and will hope that the blockade works. They do not need to be right.
Again, no, your interpretation of the German situation is all wrong. Sitting there occupying territory is not useful, Germany needs to actually win the war, and that requires attacking. It's not just an absurd strategy, it's alien to the military mindset of the day.
"We finally have a decisive advantage in the West and can win the war in one month if we attack!"
"Agreed. Which is why my plan is to do... nothing!"
Sorry, but it's nonsense.
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