Great points! Especially the "Russia vs The West" framing. I mean, no doubt Putin is responsible for much of that polarisation, but there are definitely many layers to the way this antagonistic relationship persists.

The problem is, first of all, I’m not at all convinced that if Putin had “won quickly” in Ukraine, he would be satisfied there (not to mention how unacceptable this would be for the Ukranian people). And secondly, it sets a terrifying precedent to say to a leader like Putin that countries will simply roll over if he decides to invade.

I’m completely with you on minimising the loss of human life. But that’s why it’s so vital to act decisively before the bombs start dropping.