They were thinking: "Hm, these Russians haven't rooted out corruption and there is a decent chance that they'll backslide into an illiberal state. Best to take

They were thinking: "Hm, these Russians haven't rooted out corruption and there is a decent chance that they'll backslide into an illiberal state. Best to take the countries that want democracy and peace while we still can." Though I agree that Ukraine has led to a lot of trouble. Still probably worth it in the long run though.