[vanusa]

Both this comment and its parent have the basic chronology backwards, specifically in regard to Ukraine. Whose moves to join NATO began in 2008 -- a full six years before the annexation of Crimea.

Also, especially since the Kosovo intervention it seems moot to refer to NATO as a "defensive alliance". It is an instrument through which its leading partners project power throughout the region, and the Russians know that.

[mthoms]

I'm aware of the timeline but it has no bearing on the point I actually made. Invading Ukraine only makes the need to join NATO more pressing for the Ukrainians not less.

[vanusa]

Your point is perfectly sound. What matters at this juncture is what Putin does - and why he can tap into a substantial component of support of his people to take military action to address decades of distrustful feelings towards the West, should he choose to do so.

Recall that is the secret to his genius: "To become the leader that my people want me to be."

[LatteLazy]

Exactly.

Since 1989, NATO has been an alliance in search of an enemy. That's why it was involved in almost no conflicts before then. But since then it's been all over Eastern Europe, Iraq multiple times, Africa, Afghanistan etc.

I don't like Putin. But his position is a very predictable (even forced) response to (mainly US and UK) NATO activities.