When it comes to Russia these days, the U.S. and Europe are striving for deterrence.
That’s what drove the Obama administration to impose sector-based sanctions on Russia after its stealth invasion of Ukraine. Deterrence justified the Treasury sanctions this month against Russian oligarchs. They send a message: This is what happens when you interfere in our election. Don’t do it again.
Deterrence has its place, but it should not be the only objective when thinking about how to counter Russia. There is also inoculation.
