After almost 600 pages of discussion, I still don’t get it what’s the end game for Russia and What is Putin envisions future of Russia is.
1. Was Putin so scared of Ukraine joining NATO that he had to invade as last option?
2. Did Putin invaded to maintain monopoly on Gas export to Europe?
3. Does Putin wanna revive USSR ?
4. West could never attack Russia due to Russian Nukes so why is Putin so anxious of NATO?
5. Is Putin afraid of Color Revolution in Russia and he & his supporters might lose their wealth ?
6. Is Putin worried that Russia might split among ethnic, geographical line in next few decades ?
Before going through any of this one has to keep one thing in mind that Putin, like all dictators, has created an environment where telling him something he does not like is a risky proposition. That extends to what he is told about public opinion, goings on in other countries and military readiness. That does not mean he gets all lies. It does mean he does not have an accurate picture.
1. NATO was nothing but an excuse (in this case), but it is a threat in his mind because it keeps him from potentially controlling other countries and regions. What Putin and the oligarchs are really afraid of is a powerful populace in a (mostly) democratic system. And that on his borders is a huge threat.
2. He definitely wants to maintain that and the billions it brings in. He also thought that the threat of losing access to gas would make Europe not confront him, especially with Germany's dumb energy moves.
3. From an influence and being feared perspective, yes
4. NATO prevents Russian control of countries as well. Countries that he wants under his sphere.
5. Yes
6. It has and will continue to do so.