I disagree with this take or the opinion that Putin is unhinged. NATO is encircling Russia, if Ukraine became a NATO country ballistic missiles would have only been 350 miles from Moscow and even closer to St. Petersburg. The US and Russia agreed on disarmament, and NATO agreed not to allow more Eastern European countries into the alliance in the 90s but then continued on with six rounds of admissions. Next up was clearly Ukraine, Moldova and more than likely Finland at least partially.
The idea that Russia should just sit back and take it is ridiculous. There isn't a chance the US would allow any Russian or Chinese military incursion in Mexico or Canada so why would Russia allow the same? Ukraine is going to be taken with as little possible casualties to become a permante buffer state. There will be no question on if Ukraine will ever join Nato again, same with Belarus and Moldova. Wouldn't be surprised if Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia are in the crosshairs next, even with their NATO status.
TLDR: Fuck Euro kikes.