Looking back and looking forward
World War II vs. Today's War in Ukraine
The war in Ukraine has now entered its 4th year. While the devastation is beyond tragic, it is a grim reminder of the events that took place throughout Europe during WWII. So much so, I have been thinking back to 1945, when the war finally was winding down. Yes, it was 80 years ago that the Battle of the Bulge, Germany's last major Western offensive, ended. Four months later, Hitler was dead and Germany surrendered.
By all accounts, VE Day was an enormous accomplishment. Clearly, it couldn't have happened without the full support of America and its allies. Given the shouting match that occurred in the Oval Office last Friday, I wonder what people will say 80 years from now about the war in Ukraine? America must play a role in bringing peace to the region. When that happens, will it be a VU Day for Ukraine or a VR Day for Russia? What do you say?
-DF
It seems any involvement of the US in the Ukraine under our current administration will not be advantageous to Ukraine. I hope the EU NATO members step up their support to keep Ukraine in the fight, if that's what Zelensky decides to do. He seems to want to remain engaged with the US; I guess he sees that as the only way to get the weapons he needs. So he will give up mineral rights to get them.
It sounds like a devil's bargain to me, but I am Old School when it comes to honoring alliances and treaties. We "guaranteed" Ukraine's safety when they gave up their nuclear weapons after the dissolution of the USSR.
Another treaty broken. Another nail in the coffin of American leadership.
If Russia invades Poland, or another NATO country, will the US honor its obligations then? Which side will the USA support?
It is obvious now that the current U.S. president is negotiating “peace” on terms that amount to a Russian victory. During World War II, both Russia and the U.S. gave little consideration to the Ukrainian people and their land - and not much has changed in their mentality or values since then.
Russia had long taken for granted the achievements of the 15 nations of the Soviet Union and will stop at nothing to regain control. My Ukrainian grandfather died in World War II on Russian soil, and now his grandchildren’s land is occupied by russia.
I highly recommend reading ‘Value(s)’ by Mark Carney to understand U.S. choice.