Craig,

American leaders use sanctions to look like they are doing something while keeping their hands clean (although they can do enormous unrealized harm).

Their use in Cuba, Iran, and Venezuela proves they are ineffective in achieving anything productive. It's no surprise that sanctions were not going to work in Putin's case.

Putin had to be stopped with physical force -- as Ukraine is doing. They need help from America and the West to achieve this, which could easily be provided.

It's a massive failure of leadership -- particularly from the American President.

Many thanks. Best.