Russia constantly manipulates about the danger from NATO ("NATO is approaching Russia's borders"). Can someone answer the simple question "What interests NATO to attack Russia?" (what is the benefit and the benefit-risk ratio)
Former US military intelligence officer Scott Ritter said that NATO cannot enter into a direct conflict with Russia over Ukraine, because it is not capable of fighting large-scale battles.
The whole geopolitical construct is wrapped in the domination theory. The proponents of the 'great game' between the West and Russia still wield influence in manipulating the narrative. Fear of losing the established position in the international world order is pushing NATO to limit Russian influence from radiating while Russia still carries the baggage of big power ego. Based on a rationalist interpretation of the situation, it is accepted that both NATO and Russia will avoid military confrontation. Functioning under restraint may not lead to aggression by either side, as the societal impact of any such adventure will be catastrophic. However, it opens room for contestation using Non-Contact Warfare. Escalation matrices will be carefully crafted and curated along non-lethal and lethal domains to gain ascendency over each other.