The problem is that Putin has been allowed to get away with so much again and again, without any real push-back from the west, he's probably just seeing how far he can take it.
Yeah I can see what u mean there. He has had us over a barrel for so long. Doesn't have any opposition to worry about and can push us all the way then step back and claim victory. Or get away with it like in the Crimea. It's a very difficult situation