I mean, this was true before Russia invaded Crimea. It's only become more true since.
The actual solution was a NATO/Ukraine mutual defense pact in the aftermath of Ukraine surrendering its nukes, but that expired sometime around 2008.
The "Ukraine never in NATO" crowd seems to think they're avoiding confrontation with Russia, but they're actually encouraging Russia in a confrontation that's well underway.
Events are past the point where "don't make Russia nervous, don't push back, or they might get aggressive" becomes denial.
