A major issue for Putin is the demonstrably higher standard of living

In the Ukraine right on his border. Suggests their system is better than Russia’s.

Also worth pointing out Ukraine was denied permission to start a process towards NATO membership in 2008 for fear such a move would provoke Russia.

A problem is the heavy reliance of much of Europe on Russian supplies of fossil fuels and in particular gas.

Posted By: Old Man, Feb 24, 09:11:04