Russian Friends, Ukraine? Options

[Hoodstock]

Russian friends, could you please explain your country's view of the impending Ukrane invasion?

From all accounts Ive seen in North America this clearly looks like a simple exercise in empire expansion. Basically a hostile invasion that is completely unprovoked and unwarranted.

[Ecstatic Fanatic]

While I’m not Russian (and I think only one person still here can make that claim) my first bachelors degree in college did specialize in Russian history and as the home of my ancestors I do keep an eye on it.

The logical read of the situation is that Putin/Russia played nice in the 2000’s and in exchange watched as the West poached former ally’s and spheres of influence. Now, outside of Belarus, Russia is mostly ally-less in Europe and Ukraine is a line in the sand. Putin realizes that if Ukraine joined the EU and NATO then Belarus probably won’t be far behind once Lukashenko is out of power. Fight now sit back and watch your great power status fade until you can’t fight at all.

At the end of the day though it’s anyones guess as to what’s in the mind of an autocratic leader. And obviously whatever the reason, Russia really looks on the wrong side of history here. I doubt anyone expected Ukraine to hold off one of the worlds best militaries for three weeks but here we are.

[+Ed+]

I know I have kept silent for long and I think that it is hardly the best place to say that, but guys some of you have known me since 2006, and some know me personally.

Sorry to say, but I could do with some assistance. If anyone is willing to try and help me a bit, hit me up with a pm if you do not mind.

No money issues involved definitely. And I am not that much of a bandit anyway.

And I can also answer all the questions you might have privately.