Russia's militant posturing is threatening to further destabilize the country at a delicate time. Naturally Russia has trade and economic, as well as cultural, interests in Ukraine. But the citizens should be allowed to make their own decisions.
This populist revolt that ousted Yanukovich arose because he suddenly turned away from closer ties to Europe and the EU in favor of Russia. Putin does not own Ukraine. It is a sovereign nation and should be left to make its own decisions about such matters.
President Obama's statement today was a stern warning to Putin not to intervene militarily or violate Ukraine's sovereign territory.
"It would be a clear violence of Russia’s commitment to respect the independence and sovereignty and borders of Ukraine, and of international laws. And just days after the world came to Russia for the Olympic Games, it would invite the condemnation of nations around the world. And indeed, the United States will stand with the international community in affirming that there will be costs for any military intervention in Ukraine."This last point may be the most important to Putin. Having a successful Olympic Games in Russia and being able to showcase Russia to the world was immensely important to Putin. To be reminded that he is about to destroy the good will he gained just a few days later should be persuasive.
Ralph
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