One does not simply create an APFS snapshot using tmutil. Using tmutil means Time Machine creates a snapshot for me. It also conveniently earmarks the snapshot for later removal at Time Machine’s own discretion.

That’s not what I want. I want to have a say in snapshot retention, not have some tool make the decision for me.

Specifically, I need precise control over snapshot retention so I can maintain several off-site replicas of my backup.