There are zero meaningful cultural differences between Ukraine and Russia from the perspective of a western nation, so that is out as a reason not to have ties with them. And numerous slavic countries are already in NATO.

We were allies with communist Russia during WWII in a "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" kind of way. The Soviet Union was an outright enemy (except to post-Johnson American Democrats) ever since due to its communist and expansionist ideology until it collapsed a generation ago. Russia today is a very different animal. Aside from that, the Russian people have no beef with Americans, nor Americans with Russians. There's no ancient bloodfeud to get in the way -- it's just realpolitik.

Working with Iran? WE are working with Iran. The former president sent them pallets of cash and the current president unfroze billions of Iranian dollars. And you don't think the US is viewed as a "destabilizing force in the Middle East" by virtually every country on the planet? Please.

Re: Christianity -- Are you unaware that the US has persecuted ethnic minorities? I think black folks might like a word with you. And maybe some Japanese folks who were around in the 40s.
That the US represses political opposition? The current regime is literally trying to bankrupt and jail its leading opponent as we speak. That we are viewed as imperialists by many other countries? Get real.

Formidable: Russia is are formidable due to their nuclear (and other) arsenals coupled with their natural resources. If they weren't formidable, then why the fuck are you so worried about them?

History lesson concluded. You're welcome.