[tlozo]

The similarities far outweigh any differences. Didn’t say that justifies Putin’s invasion. Just that culturally, historically, and linguistically the two are close cousins

Same with Poland, since they are all Slavic countries.

[katana]

I guess the easiest way to clarify what I meant is to point out that Russians and Ukrainians not only claim the same historic cultural roots but were cojoined in the USSR. I've been to Poland many times and done business there. Their language is Slavic but are unique and more Western oriented in religion and character.

The Russian and Ukrainian heritage of corruption and Soviet style lying and bluster is hard to shake. It goes beyond the dissimulation common in all wars. I believe the Russians are wholly in the wrong as they are the aggressors. But I don't buy into either side's propaganda.