a. But earlier on, American intelligence officials said they often had a better understanding of Russia's military plans than of Ukraine's. (Source: The New York Times)
Is it possible to use these alternatives to mean the same thing? Or are these impossible constructions?
b. But earlier on, American intelligence officials said they often had a better understanding of Russia's military plans than an understanding of Ukraine's.
c. But earlier on, American intelligence officials said they often had a better understanding of Russia's military plans than they had an understanding of Ukraine's.
