The Russians can take over the Baltics in 48 hours. It would’t be a close contest. We have nothing with which to stop them and the Cold War Tripwire is gone. And if Russia re-annexed those countries, we wouldn’t instigate World War III over it.
NATO guarantees are so much p*ss*ng in the wind and we know it and Moscow knows it. At the moment the Kremlin doesn’t want to bite off more than it chew.
Then we are likely dead. Or worse. Most likely not from a Russian attack, and likely after I've passed on. But the consequences long term are pretty straightforward in general terms. It's pretty disquieting to know that in the best case scenario, I'll be looking down from Heaven (well, hopefully Heaven!) to see my daughter and her children living in a world dominated by a Russian / Chinese axis. Unfortunately, that is not one of the most likely scenarios. It goes downhill after that.
However, a new U.S. President in 2016, with the character, leadership, and actions to restore trust in U.S. commitments, could still change that future.
NATO was formed in 1949. Article 5 still applies. Any of the 28 member states, which arr attacked is considered an attack against all. That commitment is just as strong today as it was 65 years ago. Russia will be committing national suicide if attacks any of the Baltic countries.
There is a reason why the countries that were formerly part of the Soviet Union and are now liberated were eager to join NATO. It is a guarantee that they will retain their independence in just such circumstances.
NATO guarantees are so much p*ss*ng in the wind and we know it and Moscow knows it. At the moment the Kremlin doesn’t want to bite off more than it chew.
Where do you come up with such BS, suck it out of your thumb? If Moscow doubts the credibility of the NATO alliance, then they are making a serious miscalculation that will result in the destruction of their country. And you grossly overestimate the capability and operational effectiveness of the Russian military. We won't go to war over Ukraine, but a NATO country is a far different matter.