Is the Kremlin's intention to create a militarised buffer, within Ukraine, between NATO and Russia itself?

The Kremlin may be considering the creation of a security buffer between the borders of the Russian Federation itself and the bulk of Ukraine. This is why I think it is a distinct possibility...

In a previous newsletter “The likelihood is that Russia will invade Ukraine, here's why and what the objectives are likely to be”, I outlined the objectives and military options that the Kremlin may be considering. However, after listening to President Putin’s somewhat bizarre address to the Nation - bizarre to European and American ears at least - and as I look at the evolving and growing Russian military deployments, my thoughts have evolved. I believe that there is a real possibility that President Putin may actually be considering the establishment of a militarised buffer zone inside Ukraine, adjacent to Russia’s border. Here’s why…