[psychphysic]

I don't believe at all that Ukraine fought off the initial invasion alone.

In fact I think that's been categorically disproven with green berets admitting to providing on ground training extensively before the invasion and admissions of extensive intelligence support from those AWACS weren't circling the black sea for training purposes.

Even an admission that the base near Poland which was struck was the primary place western troops trained Ukrainian troops.

Likely a cohort of Ukrainian troops which were trained and equipt were already present in Ukraine likely at the instance of the US when intelligence predicted invasion within a year.

Why would Ukraine turn it down?

I'm sorry but the miracle of the Ukrainian farmers defense is a laughable fairy tale it was achieved through careful preparation and huge military losses. All driven by savvy NATO advisors.

Whether or not the Ukrainian government really believed Russia would invade is another question. Biden suggests not.