First of all we all agree the Soviet Union failed to erase any nationalist movement in Ukraine.

 Despite 2 over genocides and 2 World Wars , not considering KGB and other forms of pressure.

Not considering the immense corruption in Ukraine Itself , Not Considering true Russian Agents or wannabe for any reason recruited for Moscow Ukrainians.

If you add that up , IF Russia loses all 4 provinces they now occupy and that is mainly well perceived Crimea WHICH IS UKRAINIAN the only reason to react is triggering an event that will lead to a direct hot conflict and that is mostly why they say and talk about WWIII.

Not considering that them Red Hans will own them , like i said Russia in her own decline under this administration is becoming something between a buffer and a vessel state with China provided access to the Arctic.

Problem arises on the billions of know how and money in data and wisdom invested in these lands to best get the ores , that is a tragedy for Western Companies to consider.

Whatever the Red Chinese may acquire will be Red Chinese.

Moscow is Day Dreaming.

Most of Siberia could be Red Han by the end of this Century.

No nukes required.

My East of Kolyma river Κολυμα.