tech37 wrote: ↑Thu Feb 24, 2022 9:56 am
Now we know Putin wasn't bluffing. Biden and his people need to tread very very lightly...
do not escalate this mess.
It's going to be hard not to escalate and still be effective. As you know, we are dealing with the invasion of a sovereign nation, under circumstances that are almost entirely cooked up by Putin. So:
Support Ukraine with war materiale, immediately, everything but soldiers in theatre. All systems, weapons, intel, counter-cyber, etc.
Bankrupt Putin's war machine. We have to freeze and seize Russian finances, including in particular those controlled by Putin and the oligarchs who support him;
Remove Russia from, or isolate it from, every international organization and financial institution.
Recall all embassy personnel and ambassadors from Russia. There is no point in talking. The unified message has to cease fire, remove your troops and materiale, or be isolated from the world community.
Remove and counter Russian propaganda. Actually shut down Russian media in the West.
Boycott -- as advertisers and viewers -- American outlets and political actors that support Putin.
Work with other nations, including OPEC countries, to cease purchases of Russian oil and gas. Induce American and Middle Eastern producers to increase production. Do not allow Putin the benefit of rising oil prices that his war ensured.
I am sure there are more. We are not toothless, even without the commitment of human assets.
Oh, and move the UEFA Champions League Final out of St. Petersburg.