Yes, I do. NATO is set up as a defensive force to protect Europe. Not as an 'offensive force'. Do you think Germany or France (esp. Germany) would yield to American demands when Russia can attack directly rather than have an ocean to cross first? Can the U.S. replace the fuel Europe gets from Russia?

I would say the answer to both those questions (and many more) would be an emphatic "No" or "Nyet". And the U.S. attack Russia first? Again, not snowball's chance in Hell. Europe can survive without the U.S. but we need Europe as a trading partner, a place to sell all the crap, I mean "products" we over-produce. Does anyone really believe that there are enough Americans to buy the extra cars and other products without Europe buying a great many of them? There aren't and an attack on Russa could well be the downfall of America. China is ready to jump in and help Europe, thus getting those nations reliant on the Chinese. And China may see an attack on its future vassal state of Russia as a reason to get involved and help Russia militarily. he U.S. is not ready to take on two major militaries at the same time and I'm sure the Pentagon is aware of that. But, if we get another Trump-like tin-plated dictator in the White House, Ron #DeathSantis, for example, he just might try to launch nukes at Russia which would mean, well, the end of humanity or at the least, civilization. I enjoyed reading your story, you brought up some great points, especially around Ukraine's mineral resources but you left out the fact that Ukraine is one of the largest grain and corn exporters in the world and with Russia in control, it would have the worldwide necessity of food to bargain/blackmail the world with. I hope to see more of your thoughts soon.