I agree entirely. The problem is, whoever takes over from Putin would capitalize on the perceived threat of "NATO at our doorstep." But you're right, Russia can't be trusted so long as autocrats continue to rule and abusive tyrants are seen as "strong leaders."

And it's apt you bring up China. Here too is another country that fears its people and resorts to strongman tactics to try to enforce "unity" and "stability." And the projection of military strength abroad always seems to be a key aspect of that. It's Autocrat 101, really. Use foreign threats, wars, and scapegoats to project the illusion of strength of toughness.

This is the paradox we'll always face, isn't it? How do we de-escalate tensions and build bridges when dealing with people who want their abuses ignored, their annexations and occupations tolerated, and who's entire basis of power comes down to force? That experiments was attempted with Stalin and ended predictably!