I object to you both throwing all Russians into the same bucket and using 'we' as you're expressing your particular opinion, not necessarily shared by a wider g

I object to you both throwing all Russians into the same bucket and using 'we' as you're expressing your particular opinion, not necessarily shared by a wider group of westerners. As you can tell from Putin's elaborate use of propaganda, regular Russians would probably not agree with chauvinist and aggressive policies (otherwise the propaganda wouldn't be necessary). I don't believe many Russians perceive themselves as supporting a government that pursues an aggressive policy. It's easy to see how that propaganda can work - compare the US' post-9/11 invasion of Iraq, backed by a public opinion that was mostly manufactured. Don't get me wrong - Putin's actions are definitely wrong and unacceptable, and the West has to take proper action to deter him from further escalation. But we have to be cognizant of what will work, and what will only deepen the conflict. This is international politics - don't act on anger, disappointment, or other feelings, it'll most likely make things worse.