A massive build-up of Russian troops along the Ukrainian border is fueling speculation of an imminent invasion. Western leaders have warned Russian President Vladimir Putin against military action, but, especially after the catastrophic American withdrawal from Afghanistan, they appear divided and weak and may be unable to stop him.
A Russian invasion of Ukraine, if successful, would expand Moscow’s sphere of influence along its western border and pave the way for Eastern Europe and the Baltics to come under Russian domination once again.
Will Russia invade? I have my doubts. Maybe the intent is to widen the growing schisms within NATO by warlike posturing. I doubt the majority of NATO members would go to war over Ukraine and that will at the least herald the beginning of the end of the alliance. That may be Putin’s immediate goal, neatly accomplished without need of an invasion.
