But just as WW2 started in 1937 but didn't really kick off until 1941, the main bouts of this one, The West vs the BRICS, won't be for another few months yet. (Say end 2024, beginning of 2025)
"Stumbling into War".
"Huh?? Wha' happen?"
Obviously there are shades of gray, but just seeking these positions hints at their psychology.
Russians dying in this war might have been one of his direct goals, as this cements Ukrainians as enemies and bolsters how legitimacy.