Re: Russia v Ukraine
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The whole situation is crazy. While I understand Russia was concerned about expansion, Ukraine is not and will never be a member of NATO.
It would be stupid for the existing members to admit Ukraine to a binding pact knowing they have an existing conflict with Russia as it would potentially draw them in.
A lot of commentators have said that simply agreeing to these terms would have avoided this but on the other hand perhaps that ambiguity could have tempered Russia at the same time.
Another argument is that strong sanctions could have prevented this but they also give Russia nothing to lose. In any case sanctions should be a punishment against action you have taken not what you might do.
It's played out a lot like most people thought it would although much more. Putin wants to make sure he doesn't bite off more than he can chew though because any fallout on a NATO country is likely to trigger a response.
While we are not part of Europe and so far not any chance of getting involved directly, it does has potential consequences in our region in the future depending on what happens with China.
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