I'd like to point out something--

Putinist Russia's responsible now for continued instability in Syria--by blocking UN Security Council efforts--and the unrest in Crimea and Eastern Ukraine.

Now, whether he legitimately wanted to engage in military action, or just wanted to protect his ego, President Obama WAS ready to take on Syria...but the GOP-led Congress stonewalled him on that.

He wanted action on Crimea--was met with a tepid response by EU allies who are more concerned about their oil and gas prices then they are the liberties of Eastern Europe or Putin's getting the band back together "Back in USSR" (a long way for a Beatles reference, but still.)

So...my question is--

WHEN will the West act, more than if it will act?

Would a GOP-led Congress authorize strong action against Russia in an election year...

...or simply punt on that issue, and then we get to endure two years of FOX News complaining Obama's been a softy when he's one thus far who's called for action of any kind in any of the theatres of instability Putin's created?

And abroad--

is the EU going to do...anything?

Sorry, I guess that's an unfair question--we all know the answer is no. :p

So, better question--will any members of the EU "screw their courage to the sticking place" and face this down before we get Cold War II, or are they so "full of the milk of human kindness" that we're just going to keep appeasing "pro-Russian forces?"

(Yes, "Macbeth" quotes...but given the amount of political backstabbing and dirty hands here...oh well.)