Excellent points Kevin Donovan.

One very simple way of differentiating the Russian people from their authoritarian leader is to consistantly refer to "Putin" or at least "Putin's Russia" rather than "Russia" and "Russian". I have been dismayed that news and commentary mostly haven't made this a habit. For what reason exactly, I'm not sure. But it could be a failure to either understand the distinction or even to imagine that one man could have such power. Putin has already subjugated Russia's courts, parliament, press and people.

There is no question. This is Putin's war -- not his population's, political party's, oligarchs or generals.

And as you say, there will be an outcome and a future for Russia and its people, culture and history. We want Russia to be prosperous and participate in the world. This needs to be in the equation NOW along with the immediate and defined task of helping Ukraine remove Putin from their country.

Many thanks.

In case you missed it. Tom Friedman had good opinion yesterday in the NYT May 4, 2022.