Demographics matter as well as resources, location etc. Few of the general public consider these things when there are International Events. They simply pick a side and go for it.
Added to the fray is always the ‘irresponsible media’ harming efforts for leaders on the World Stage to operate among themselves without having to consistantly deal with stupid and uninformed reporters and journalists, who simply want readership and the story to engage that readership.
When it comes to Ukraine it’s simply a past battle still raising it’s head. Putin’s attempting to stabilize the country before history repeats itself and the bloodbaths begin....while his motives are the oil flow and ports...and who will control those....from the position of the people it’s a divided country.
The cry for freedom is always the drum beat of politicians....the people then follow them or resist. That’s why elections do matter. Half of Ukraine wants to align with Nato...the other remain loyal to Russia.
Why would Putin want Nato on it’s border? Regardless of what portion of the people want that...neighboring countries have influence and sway.
I hear Obama has secured Austria/Hungry as an ally to stand against Putins movements. But he’s going to have do a lot better than that.