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As stated Putin's goal is the reconstitution of the Russian Empire as originally constituted by Peter the Great...and regaining the world stage as a world power. That he rightfully thinks Russia should be.

Putin would like to think of himself as a strongman like Stalin, but he does not have the same malevolent temperament as Stalin.

The USA does have an interest in containing Russian/Putin's power if not for the present but for the futures sake. It would be much easier and cheaper to stop him now rather than later. .

One doubts that Putins aims go as far as Poland, except perhaps to have Poland in the Russian sphere of influence. Putin is aware of history and realizes where WW2 started and that was the invasion of Poland in Sept of 39.

Contrary to some peoples belief a free and Democratic Poland (as goes Poland so goes the rest of Eastern Europe) is in the national interest of the USA...for if Eastern Europe should fall under the sway of Russia we are right back to where we were in 1989. Only this time around Putin is not bound to an ideological pov, and as such is far more dangerous of a foe. Also Putin has covered his back door with trade agreements with China.

Putin has witnessed the corruption and implosion of the Soviet system and is not bound to make the same mistakes. Putin is a Machiavellian Great White who seizes opportunity when he sees it.

One thing that the US can do is to unilaterally put those missiles back into Poland...and start up a cozy relationship with Georgia. again That will make Putin howl...and he will back off if he sees that the US is resolute in its containment of him Putin is aware of the weakness in his own hand and will not overstep himself. The US should indicate that we do not need PUTIN nor Russia largess in dealing with Iran, Syria, China nor any other place in the world if push comes to shove. Putin needs to be kept in his place and not be allowed to expand his power base and thus be able to play a stronger and more demanding hand.

There I just made the assessment and or job that the President of the USA should have made..