This is exactly the playbook: vague threats meant to create fear, strain Western solidarity and normalise aggression. Putin’s rhetoric is dangerous, but we shouldn’t let the Kremlin manufacture panic or justification for reckless escalation at home. As progressives we must be clear — we condemn Russia’s invasion and hybrid attacks, stand with Ukraine’s right to defend itself, and insist on robust humanitarian aid for civilians and accountability for war crimes. At the same time, we must resist cozying up to authoritarian figures — the fact that Putin openly praises Trump-aligned envoys is a warning sign about the risks of normalising dictators. Defending democracy means combining firm deterrence (sanctions, defence aid, strengthening cyber and infrastructure resilience) with relentless diplomacy that never sacrifices Ukraine’s sovereignty on the altar of expediency. Finally, countering this campaign also means fighting disinformation, protecting civil liberties, and supporting refugees. Unity, clarity of purpose, and long-term investment in democratic institutions are the best antidotes to Kremlin intimidation.