In the wake of these challenges came an astonishing attraction to authoritarianism over democracy here at home and around the world. At the same time, the U.S. experienced a relative decline in its power and a waning interest in its global leadership. These factors formed a perfect storm that led to the collapse of the world order that we had built and championed for decades.

So where does that leave us and where do we go from here?

For now, the chattering class is thoroughly occupied with analysis of how to handle Putin’s invasion of Europe. No matter how that tragedy ultimately plays out, Putin already has succeeded.

Aside from the illegal Crimea land grab and the additional parts of Ukraine he will destroy and occupy, he has also defined the narrative of our time. He will dominate international discourse for years to come. That includes how do we punish him, how do we learn to live with the consequences of his actions, how do we maintain a global coalition against him, and, ultimately, how do we eventually move on?