Obviously the analogy is not perfect, but your counter argument is concerning. Your argument implies that, somehow, Russia was justified invading Ukraine because they have a shared history?

If that’s what you believe, I disagree strongly. Nothing justifies invasion.

Now… if you want to point out that the US’s or Europe’s or NATO’s actions in the past have destabilized the world making a situation like this more likely, that’s a fair criticism. And, the US itself has committed its fair share of war crimes and those responsible should stand trial. However, that *still* does not justify Russia’s invasion; it just means, the US should also be held responsible for their crimes.

However, sadly, I think this invasion is going to make US accountability even less likely; countries seeking protection from Russian expansionism will be more likely to justify US atrocities, in hopes that they can receive military assistance should they need it.