There is a huge difference between Russia and America. America is a country that's number one in economy, that attracts a lot of emigrants from all over the world, including Russia. All in all, I want to say that Russia is a country that can't take care of itself because it's ranked way lower in every aspect, especially in income and quality of life. What does ან average citizen want? Good work ethic, good quality of life, good work-life balance, safe and friendly environment (US can be excluded in this case). That's why Ukraine wants to join the western world, to become a part of Europe and I think their choice must be free, who the fuck is Russia to decide the fate of other nations?
And if they want Ukraine to join them, then attract Ukraine with the quality of life, education, etc.
The truth is, Russia can't take care of itself, this country is not a good place to live, that's why your neighbors don't want to join you and rebuilt your Soviet Union, because people felt like shit during that era.
Are you seriously? Russia is the largest country in the world and on its own continent. Russia is part of the BRICS economic alliance, which is larger than the economies of the G7 countries. The European Union has a large economy, but no political independence, because Europe is occupied by the US armed forces within the framework of the NATO military alliance. Ukraine is in the sphere of influence of Russia for historical and geographical reasons, and it also does not have political independence, because it is on the payroll of the United States. The United States is a great country, but it would be better for it to stop sticking its nose into foreign continents and take care of solving many of its own problems.