In the past Russia might have been able to it alone, but in the modern world, the rule of international law governs most spheres between nations even of those who were naughty in the past. That is the new reality. A new god rules and it is not the almighty Putin....SHE WHO MUST BE OBEYED... as Rumpole of the Bailey would say ... Presides over church, dictators, and state law. That IS the new world order. Women's logic rules.... That or death to all ... A new social contract was signed the moment Russia in the 90's went begging for money from the World Community. It's a very real contract with the world community and one that most other major powers will force by fighting and killing if necessary those who would destroy the modern social ethic. So Russia needs to tread very very carefully.....