The thing to look for is (as usual) Putin. Take over in as democratic a way possible, then start tightening the grip on power. Every election it looks like his party might get a real challenge, but after every election looks like before. Get control of the media and fake up as many crises as possible and it can work.

The thing that worries me is that the Ukrainians appear to be pretty badass. I don't think American liberals will be so willing even to face down AR-15s held by citizens.

Forget shooting a guy on 5th Ave, I doubt gunning down liberals will be enough. After the Kent State shootings, plenty of people were willing to say they deserved it.