Russia and Ukraine

[Anomalocaris]

Seems like thats for ukraine to decide either way.  There's no justification for a russian invasion of the country particularly if russia credibly believed ukraine was looking to return to the fold.

Bullshit cutting, right?

Did ukraine meet the requirements?

A nuclear power does not let another country have the option to decide to neuter its nuclear deterrence.   

There is no doubt pro-western fraction in Ukraine was better organized, more savvy, and effectively supported by the US.    IF I were Russia, I would not rely on the chance  that the country of Ukraine as a whole would see the light by itself either, even if I estimate the odds of thar happening iis better than even,   Which I would not, is at least not when my status as a major power depends on it.