The nuclear "chicken game" being played by the west coincides with the insistence that economic pain is essential.  Is this a coincidence???

Sept. 21—Today Russian President Vladimir Putin gave an address to his nation, giving a situation report on Ukraine, and why he has taken the step to order a new, “partial” mobilization of forces, involving a call-up of 300,000 more personnel, and related, grave measures. His comprehensive statement is posted on the Kremlin website for world attention.