But I don't think Putin is self-destructive / suicidal. There is no hope for controlling a hypothetical conquered European country for any length of time given Russia's present capabilities.
Realistically the only thing Russia can hope for is the preservation of the status quo - keeping Crimea and the land bridge to it.
Realistically the only thing Russia can hope for is the preservation of the status quo - keeping Crimea and the land bridge to it.