There is a huge levels of difference between embracing Russia’s entire government and acting like Russia is the devil and acting with hyperbole about Russia (a 2% GDP drop isn’t freefall and Russia has done much better under Putin than in the 90s - it’s also like our agents have purposefully tried to hurt Russia by keeping natural gas prices and oil way down - Venezuela is in a free fall). Like most governments, there are things I like about Russia and things I dislike but at this point we should be closer allies to Russia and less so to governments like Saudi Arabia and China. We have much more in common interest and common enemies. Let Europe deal with Russia militarily if they want.
“Venezuela is in a free fall.”
When you say, “Hey, Russia is not quite as bad as Venezuela!” you have lost the argument.
Well put.