[schaefer]

NATO forces directly engaging with Russia troops, whether they’re in the Ukraine or elsewhere, would dramatically escalate the war.

Right now, it seems NATO strategy is severe financial sanctions while providing arms to Ukrainian forces.

[pjmlp]

Crazy as things are going I am expecting Russia to declare that as kind of allied declaration against them.

[bauruine]

That's basically what was done the whole Cold War. USA goes to Vietnam --> USSR supports the other fraction with weapons etc. USSR goes to Afghanistan --> USA supports the Afghans etc.

Having Cold War situations again isn't desirable of course but it's kind of battle tested to not lead to further, direct, escalations.

[pjmlp]

I remember those days, and somehow this now seems much worse.

[corobo]

Wouldn’t they instantly get stomped by NATO if they declared in any way to be at war with NATO? Or would they still have to attack a member first?

I do realise the risk of nukes at that point but in the hypothetical situation that nukes remain MAD

[pjmlp]

Long range missiles are enough to start messing with European allies, no need for nukes on the first round, afterwards oh well.

Also it is quite clear Putin won't lose his face no matter what, and has reached the point of better dead than sorry.

Very sadly how many has he already taken down with such attitude.