> The US and EU started arming bordering countries and applying extreme economic sanctions on Russia in rapid succession and "everyone" was surprised that the i

> The US and EU started arming bordering countries and applying extreme economic sanctions on Russia in rapid succession and "everyone" was surprised that the invasion occurred. I think you're getting things out of order there - the economic sanctions came after the invasion. Don't forget that Russia first invaded Ukraine in 2014; that also was met with sanctions.