The unsigned cover article of the Jan. 8 The Economist, the City of London mouthpiece, denounces the security demands made by Putin—which will be the subject of three meetings next week—claiming that “many of these demands are so extravagant and so detrimental to Europe’s security that they may really be an ultimatum drafted to be rejected, creating a pretext for another invasion of Ukraine.” The article luridly imagines such an invasion, rejoicing that although Russia could win a battle against Ukraine, “holding swathes of territory there could come at a high price.” (What swathes of territory would Russia be interested in?) The article is hopeful that in acting to “help crush” what they call “a popular uprising” in Kazakhstan may distract Putin from his goals. (https://www.economist.com/leaders/2022/01/08/how-to-talk-to-mr-putin)
The Economist's advice? (1) “deter war in Ukraine if possible” and (2) “enhance European security.” Threats of sanctions against Russia and lethal aid to Ukraine are needed. They do suggest “reassuring” Putin that “neither Ukraine nor Georgia is about to become a [NATO] member,” although they urge that “the alliance should be ready to welcome” Sweden and Finland into the fold.
