Its pretty clear to me the time has come to become militarily involved in Ukraine.
No, we shouldn’t get ready for all out war, but we should start military activity to further help the Ukrainians, as well as deter Putin. Failure to do so now will only mean a more difficult and deadly problem in the future. Neither should we go for a no-fly zone. Its not just that it might be too risky, I just don’t think we have the ability, or as the generals like to say, the capability, to do so. The Ukraine is too far from our bases, and too close to theirs.
But we need to start bolstering the borderline states with defensive weaponry and support activities. We also need to start moving into western Ukraine radar and anti-aircraft capability to protect the airports and railheads needed to evacuate refugees, AND quickly bring in additional combat units and logistic support if required in the future. Putin is now striking in western Ukraine, we need to immediately show him that will only complicate his already difficult situation. These arrangements cannot be accomplished overnight, as a response to future aggression. They must be done now before he feels strong enough to stop us.
Is this risking nuclear conflict? Yes, but I really believe not doing so will only serve to postpone it. If Putin gets away with this, an attack on NATO itself is sure to come; and that will certainly come at a time of his own choosing and at a time when the West will be ill-prepared and divided.
That’s the way I see it. We still have time. Conquering Ukraine will sap Putin’s military, now is our last chance to gain the initiative.