The Russian invasion of Ukraine in late February 2022 marks the beginning of a new phase in history. For the first time since September 1939, a dictator has invaded a neighbouring country in Europe. It has been a rude awakening for many, especially in Germany, who clung far too long to delusions about the Russian dictator’s motives and the lengths to which he is willing to go in pursuit of them. If the invasion does not proceed as the dictator planned, and there are indications that this is the case, we can only pray that he does not, or is not permitted to go to the ultimate lengths at his disposal.