I live in Russia. Here's my opinion. Putin pursues his object - geopolitical. It's very important for him, and oh yeah, for all Russians! It's very important whose rockets will be placed there - Russian or NATO's... Of course he doesn't care about Ukraine's people destiny, and no matter what he says! But what about new Ukraine's authorities? These are very aggressive people too. They are ready for any bloodshed. Their ideas are really looking like fascism! They will never forgive East!..
And now, just imagine: There are simple people are between the devil and the deep sea! I mean Russians and Ukrains... It's just politics and nothing else! Every educated person must understand it!