> The planes allow American intelligence operatives to listen to Russian ground commanders’ communications.

This is hard to believe, one would expect Russian commanders use encrypted communications.

I believe it's time Europe takes care of it's own back yard if they have concerns with Russia.

Germany, France, Italy do not seem to "have concerns" much. This whole game of chicken is U.S. and Ukraine vs. Russia and separatists.

I would rephrase your statement - it's time U.S. stopped meddling and stirring up trouble in eastern Europe. Let Ukraine and Russia solve their common problems.

I agree those European states which don't want good relations with Russia should first back their rhetoric with their own military readiness, and stop relying and pulling U.S. into the conflict.

>it's time U.S. stopped meddling and stirring up trouble in eastern Europe

That is pretty much my sentiment. We, the US, have no business there and it's just the war mongers stirring the pot while the war industrial complex salivates.