I do not profess to be a military expert. I am certain some of my friends know more than I do, particularly my friends who are veterans. But the situation in Ukraine has my attention.
Russia Is Digging In And Increasing Its Rhetoric
Russia seems to be digging in its heals in negotiations with Ukraine and showing little signs of compromise. Russia apparently wants an acknowledgement from the international community that Crimea and other parts of Ukraine that Russia invaded in violation of international law, are now lawfully part of Russia.
At the same time, Russia is increasing its rhetoric toward our fellow NATO members. Some Russian officials have even invoked the “nuclear” word in recent days. Russia is moving troops to the Finland border seemingly in response to Finland joining NATO last year.
I read a horrific story yesterday about a Ukrainian reporter who was taken captive by Russia in 2023. Her dead body was recently returned to Ukraine reportedly with signs of torture, including abrasions, hemorrhages, a broken rib and possible traces of electric shock.
The US Response Has Been Tepid So Far
In the meantime, the US announced that it has reached a deal with Ukraine giving us access to rare earth minerals. It is unclear how this might impact the US posture toward the war in Ukraine.
The question is what ought the US be doing right now. I understand the Admin’s demand that other member nations offer proportionate support to NATO. But it strikes me that these Russian advances might pose a clear and present danger to US interests. Can the US afford to wait until other NATO nations put in their fair share? Should our military be mobilizing and repositioning troops? Should we be taking steps to deescalate the situation with with Russia? What steps are those? Do we have confidence that this Admin has the knowledge and expertise to negotiate with Russia? Is the US leadership pulling the right levers? Is there strength in numbers such that the US and NATO ought to be presenting a united front?
I am sure there are other questions we ought to be asking about the war in Ukraine. These are fraught times, my friends. We need to remain vigilant.