Ukraine: Russia Has Options if It Chooses to Invade

Tensions between Ukraine and Russia show no signs of diminishing soon. Following the popular uprising that ousted former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich and installed a Western-leaning government in Kiev, Moscow's annexation of Crimea has strained already tense relations with Europe and the United States. Russia will be considering its next move following the initial rounds of sanctions from the West.

The least probable option for the Kremlin also carries the greatest significance for Kiev and the West: an invasion of mainland Ukraine. The enormous military, economic and political cost of such an action makes it unlikely. Ukraine is in a very different position from Georgia, the last country Russia invaded. Despite Russia's determination to harden its western border with NATO, the United States and Europe would not let an invasion on their doorstep go unchecked.