A Massive Bet to Restore Russia’s Place in the World

Wall Street Journal: “In invading his smaller neighbor, Mr. Putin now faces a breakdown in Moscow’s ties with the West, which will slap sanctions on Russia aimed at inflicting deep pain on its economy.”

“Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which have already sent fresh military equipment and forces to its eastern members in recent weeks, have found new unity in deterring Russia.”

“Mr. Putin, in power since 1999, now runs the risk of a prolonged conflict in Ukraine that could be akin to the Soviet Union’s disastrous 1980s war in Afghanistan—something that could ultimately stir dissent at home.”