I wish I could believe that...but I have a terrible sense that they will try something horribly dangerous before this is all over.

I worry too, a bit. Meanwhile, the Empire is not totally stupid, I mean, look at the 20 year long Afghanistan venture. I think they'll just leave Ukr imbroglio and get on with Taiwan venture, leaving Baltic chiwawas + Poland to get on with it. Water off the duck's back hehe .. leaving aside of what BRICS etc will do in the meantime.