On balance, it is this author’s view that the intervention advanced one vital national interest for Russia, as seen from the Kremlin—preventing the growing proximity of a hostile military alliance—while doing damage to several others, primarily involving development of the economy and constructive relations with both post-Soviet neighbors and key Western countries.
Russia did not prevent a hostile military alliance from approaching their border--Russia created a hostile military alliance on their border.
Where once NATO didn't trod, in the new NATO post-Soviet empire, NATO is now building up military forces and logistics systems, as well as thinking about how to fight Russia over the new NATO members.
Where once America didn't provide conventional fighting power to Georgia or Ukraine, America and our allies now help prepare Georgia and Ukraine to fight conventional heavy enemy invasions.
Where once membership in NATO was questioned from an arc from Finland to Georgia, the value of NATO in light of Russian aggression is gaining traction.
This is sweet glorious victory for Holy Mother Russia? Really? NATO was happy to ignore Russia until 2014 and European neutrals were happy to remain neutral.
Now? Everyone wants the protection of NATO in one form or another.
Putin effed up royally and if the Russian people start wondering why too much, he could be in trouble.
