I believed he would stop short of irreversibly destroying relations.

Source: https://news.err.ee/1608905159/kadri-liik-russia-has-gone-from-an-authoritarian-to-a-totalitarian-state

“It’s really important we don’t stop short of finishing that job and ensuring every community we work with is ready to say goodbye to our services.

Source: https://citynews.com.au/2023/film-shows-global-warming-is-changing-childhood/

Jerick McKinnon TD bettors seeing him stop short of the goal line: pic.

Source: https://brobible.com/sports/article/jerick-mckinnon-slide-reaction/

The Americans would stop short of Berlin because of the Allies decision to let Joseph Stalin and the Red Army capture the bombed ruins of the Third Reich capital.

Source: https://www.aerotechnews.com/blog/2023/08/03/wwii-vet-met-patton-and-shot-down-stuka-as-anti-aircraft-gunner/