The Black Sea is to Russia what the Mediterranean Sea was to the Romans–mare nostrum, "our sea."  Stoltenberg's announcement is akin to Russia announcing that Russia is considering establishing a "Chesapeake Bay Battle Group." Stoltenberg added that NATO is planning to establish battle groups in Romania and in other countries around the Black Sea.  Why such dangerous provocative actions at a time of  such high tension?  Why is Washington pouring gasoline on a fire?

Even I did not suspect this level of Washington irresponsibility.  As if this isn't enough, Stoltenberg declared the Black Sea to be of strategic importance for NATO, and the White House national security advisor said the buildup of forces on Russia's borders are necessary for future contingencies whether or not Russia invades Ukraine.

I was mistaken to think that Washington took seriously Russia's warning that she was not going to tolerate any more military buildup on her borders.  Washington did not hear, or if Washington did hear is nevertheless determined to provoke a war.  This stance presents Russia with only two choices–fight or surrender.  Is there any hope that the peoples of the West can realize the insanity of their leaders and stop the march to war? I think not. They cannot even stop their own governments' war against them.  In the Western world democracy is a hoax.

At this time Russia holds all the cards.  Will she wait, seeking solace in talks and negotiations,  until Washington/NATO are better prepared?