[Greetings_Puny_Humans]

Sigh. The answer to your question in post #26 is this. When you make the effort to see the point of view of others (in this case Russia), you are much better able to anticipate their moves, and if need be, to counter their moves.

Your post stank more of "kumbaya" than Sun Tzu. Judging from your "perhaps Russia is on active DEFENSE" language, you are thinking more along the lines of craven liberal approaches to the Russkies, holding hands and dancing in a field of daisies with Putin.

[Leaning Right]

Your post #32 argument is very odd. You are saying that because I feel it's important to understand Putin's motives, I want to dance in a field of daisies with him.

We are obviously too far apart here to have a rational discussion.