Alexander, we were always behind the curve. We SHOULD have been clear headed to defend Ukraine from the get go. But we didn't. We couldn't. That precious commodity of public enthusiasm had already been spent and there was nothing in the bank for Ukraine -- and previously Syria. These two engagements counted and NOT Afghanistan and (the second) Iraq.

Now, at this point, we MAY have public backing to oust Putin from Ukraine, but because of our previous hesitation and lack of resolve, it's a bigger deal and more risky. We could have had (if we had wanted to) Ukraine loaded and ready to defend itself with our back).

Cowering to Putin's nuclear threat does not make the prospect go away. We would be better off addressing it head on.

Many thanks. Always good.