Peter Kuchins : Obama and allies have issued empty threats at Putin . Putin : A Russian strike , either after a manufactured provocation or without one , into eastern Ukraine , is inevitable . Despite Russia 's annexation of Crimea , Obama 's promises are weak . He says since Putin has promised no push back for Crimea , why would he go there ? Kuchins : Russia will ruin Obama 's legacy by further encroaching Ukraine .
Peter Kuchins : Obama and allies have issued empty threats at Putin . Putin : Despite Russia 's annexation of Crimea , Obama 's promises are weak . He says since Putin has promised no push back for Crimea , why would he go there ? Kuchins : Russia will ruin Obama 's legacy by further encroaching Ukraine .