Russia has the geographic misfortune to be surrounded by millions of buffoons -- primarily to the north and west. Where the west is the great danger. The foregoing has been true and an issue for centuries. It's encouraging that the current Russian leadership now realizes that. The question is what to do about the existential threat that the west poses, beyond successfully completing the SMO.
But in that may be the key, where success in the SMO forces the west to accept Russia's terms. Unfortunately, even in that great victory - assuming it happens - that will only be the beginning. Because the US and its NATO allies are essentially like mad rabid dogs that must be put down.
To state the bleeding obvious, when the SMO ends in Russia's favour, that will only be the beginning for what must come next, which is to recognize indivisible security in the region. And re-establish the sovereignty of nations according to the Treaty of Westphalia. And actively (and honestly) seek peace and diplomacy, as JFK advocated for many years ago.
I don't see the Oligarchs and politicos inside the Beltway - from the highest level of political power and control on down - comprehending any of the above. And of course NATO will continually work to destabilize Russia, as it always has done. The US and west have been attempting to destroy (or at least dismember) Russia for centuries -- perhaps it's time the west faces retaliation?
