IT'S GETTING TENSE IN THE EAST – OVERNIGHT:  The US and Britain warn their citizens to get out of Russia.  From Hot Air: 

The US State Department is warning Americans not to travel to Russia and warning those who are already in Russia to leave “immediately” lest they face harassment by Russian security forces.

Do not travel to Russia due to the unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces in Ukraine, the potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials, the Embassy’s limited ability to assist U.S. citizens in Russia, COVID-19 and related entry restrictions, terrorism, limited flights into and out of Russia, and the arbitrary enforcement of local law.  

U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Russia should depart immediately.  Limited commercial flight options are still available.  Overland routes by car and bus are also still open.  If you wish to depart Russia, you should make arrangements on your own as soon as possible.  If you plan to stay in Russia, understand the U.S. Embassy has severe limitations on its ability to assist U.S. citizens, and conditions, including transportation options, may change suddenly.  U.S. citizens who are able to depart Russia for another country and are in need of emergency assistance upon arrival may contact a U.S. embassy or consulate in that country.

The UK issued a very similar warning today to its citizens.

If your presence in Russia is not essential, we strongly advise that you consider leaving by remaining commercial routes…

Before the latest update, the advice had been that people outside Russia should not travel to the country.

The warning of possible harassment of US citizens may have come a little too late for one WNBA all-star player. Brittney Griner was arrested at the airport after authorities claimed they had found drug residue in her suitcase.

COMMENT:  I'm assuming the harassment of American and British citizens is a direct response to the sanctions we have placed on Russia.  It is critical that the Western countries not back down in imposing those sanctions, even though there will be some blowback.  The Biden administration, which has a spine of whipped cream, must now show rare courage, and commit this country to the long game against Putin's Russia.  The president must especially speak to the young generation, the generation that knows little about World War II or the Cold War.  He must teach the importance of sacrifice and endurance.  I don't know if he'll get far.

March 5, 2022