[solnyshok]

he argues that constant confrontation with west would push Putin to embrace alliance with China. this seems to be happening now. and since China became big customer for russian gas, he can be more agressive with Ukraine, without risking all of his revenues. And, btw, all the announced sanctions, even personal against Putin, did not dare to touch gas pipe from Russia to Germany. It is also telling, that this gaspipe is kept working despite all military activity surrounding it.