Russia - threadbanned users in OP

F16 was there original plan alright.

Although polish government and its opposition are prity spooked they increased their spending to 4.5% of gdp

Starbucks temporarily closing in Russia.

This is precisely why I am deeply concerned about escalatory rhetoric in the west - It may not be helpful but it is to be expected, and partially due to the INSANE Rhetoric coming from the Kremlin. They HAVE to have expected this? And if they see it as a provocation, then we may have the answer RE their rationality. Our hearts are in the right places, give us time for our heads to catch up!

(for which I've been labelled a Putinbot, a coward, or both). Well all i can say is you'll not catch me doing that. There are certain 'Bad Actors' around spreading nonsense, and behaving in bad faith. I dont see any evidence whatsoever that you are doing this. And thanks for replying - i THINK before i TYPE (for the most part lol)

 I don't believe the sanctions are enough to stop Russia when it's led by a government - I feel that a crunch point will come, and the Soft Power stance (uncoordinated in places) will force a compromise. Granted i cannot say when, or where - i have speculated on the what, over on the politics thread.

It is a very difficult time for the world. We just have to hope, while also noting that its not the first showdown the world has endured. And i can only speak for myself but i am 100% behind the sanctions. Putins Russia is not free, but the world is. Companies are independently deciding to act, and leave. And this is due to overwhelming support and strong feelings of the general public

Forgot to mention - im sure you will agree. As long as the Romulans do NOT ENTER FEDERATION SPACE! we will be ok

LLAP

Id imagine after the last few weeks that's going to change,in saying that they have been modernising at a fairly steady pace they haven't rushed out and bought big ticket items , they know roughly what they want and how much they are willing to spend ,

And they only finished up a deal to get 250 Abrams tanks too ,

Israeli sources view the gaps between Putin and Zelensky as "closing"

On a scientific mission? Near Galorndon Core on the Federation side of the Neutral zone!?? lol

I did reply properly btw - just wanted to through out the reference too - happy times fellow trekkie

"I wonder if the Emperor Honorious, watching the Visigoths coming over the seventh hill, could truly realize that the Roman Empire was about to fall. This is just another page in history, isn't it? Will this be the end of our civilization? Turn the page" -

Any indication if the Ukrainian President will address the Dail?

Well really any nuke on Ukraine should be a red flag for US and UK due to the 1994 agreement with Russia when Ukraine gave up its nukes. If they want a red flag...

Coca-Cola Co said on Tuesday it is suspending its business in Russia, following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine

Look - Please re read my posts. I have highlighted MANY TIMES

• The west is crucifying Russia Economically
• Companies are not even waiting for sanctions to apply to their sectors - they are simply leaving
• The west is on the verge of abandoning Russian Oil and Gas
• NATO, the EU and the UK are arming the Ukrainians.

I am not leaving the world to the faith of anything. I am offering a good faith opinion on this crisis. I am also highlighting the massive soft power front which has opened up, and is growing, in the face of Putin's Russia. I agree with your assessment of them WITHOUT RESERVATION - they are self serving ****bags and i would add to that. Absolute Liars and con men .

The only thing i am not advocating is a shooting war between two nuclear armed power blocks - and i am on solid ground to do so

There is no logic to us arguing, we are on the same side. I urge genuine caution on this topic @TheTruth89 - all i am doing is relaying my knowledge, and studies which do have merit in this situation. You are free to disagree but please do so without getting nasty

No hard feelings, please