For centuries, Russia pursued a land empire. While Europe pursued overseas colonies. Just as Europe and Gorbachev realized the days of "empires" were over. Putin has yet to come to terms with that.

Putin's "integration" with Europe was to be on his terms. The rejection by Europe and now the abject failure of the Russian military is making it abundantly clear, Putin negotiating leverage is pretty limited.

Meanwhile, China remains vulnerable to being cut off by western powers due to its dependence on sea lanes to secure its energy. But right across its border are abundant energy supplies in Russia and the area is largely populated by ethnic Chinese as ethnic Russians move west.

Putin will be known as the leader that destroyed Russia in pursuit of an empire.