Eastern Europe is not Russia and Russia does not automatically get a say in what Eastern Europe does because they are nearby. Russia seems to believe it is entitled to a sphere of influence .

So, NATO hasn't advanced into Russia then?

Just Russia advancing into the Ukraine (after promising not to if the USSR nukes were given to Russia)?

Gotcha.

I know it’s what about ism but I really hope you apply the same logic when Cuba once more tried to enter an alliance with Russia or China to defend itself against a larger aggressor next door. So while I agree that Russia should allow Ukraine and Georgia to join NATO, I also think that’s only fair if countries like Brazil, Cuba and Venezuela are freely allowed to determine their futures by joining Russia, China and Iran military alliances. But you and I know that’s not going to happen. So please let’s stop pretending we don’t have double standards.

As you've chosen to address me directly I'll reply honestly, I have zero concern about Cuba, Venezuela, any of the 190+ countries on the planet, wanting to join or form BRICs.

I have considerably more concern about the ability of a post MAGA USofA to successfully navigate such a world via soft power as they appear to have flushed all the competent diplomatic talent down a golden toilet.

> I have zero concern about Cuba, Venezuela, any of the 190+ countries on the planet

But somehow you are extremely concerned about one country which is on the other side of planet of you.

Pardon my ignorance here;

which country are you talking about, what trade bloc are they trying to join, and what extreme concern have I expressed?