The trouble with this assertion is that it discounts Russia fantasies as unimportant, when in fact fantasies are the basis for all defense planning.

And it's not that hard to see why a military alliance created to counter Russian power would be the subject of Russian nightmares.

By that logic we should surrender because Russia has nukes and say they are willing to use them.

Or we should develop secret nuke capabilities and launch a first strike.

Russia lies extensively.

We can't moderate our behavior based on their irrationel fears.

Vietnam war started for defensive reasons.

Well maybe that is what they say they are but maybe there is more going on, and I can imagine that Russia might consider that.