Let’s stop pretending the “Russia problem” is some brand-new crisis.
Now, does that justify invading Ukraine? No. But does pretending Russia’s paranoia came out of nowhere make any sense? Also no.
No answers, but not talking is undoubtedly not the answer. We reconciled with Japan. We reconciled with Germany. We reconciled with Italy. Yes, the Marshall Plan helped,
Look at the body count of all lives lost in the wars involving Japan, Germany, and Italy. All of the following wars involved Russia, China, and Europe.
4. Think Long-Term. Russia isn’t turning into a Western democracy anytime soon, if ever. However, a Russia that sees cooperation as being in its best interest is better than one that only sees war as an option.
The Holodomor
The Holodomor (1932–1933) was a man-made famine in Soviet Ukraine, orchestrated by Joseph Stalin’s regime as part of collectivization policies and repression against Ukrainian nationalism. Grain requisitions left millions without food, while borders were closed to prevent escape. Estimates of the death toll range from 3.5 to 7 million, with some scholars suggesting higher numbers. Classified as genocide by Ukraine and several other nations, the Holodomor remains one of history’s most devastating artificial famines.
Russia is cautious about trusting the West because history hasn’t been kind. Russia even made overtures for more significant ties to the West, although it was a bit much for them to ask to join NATO and the EU.
And Ukraine more than just distrusts Russia—it hates and resents it. See Holodomor.
We complain that the Middle East is holding on to ancient hatreds, but as tricky as it is to admit, “are we doing the same when it comes to Russia?”
Change is never without conflict. But let us avoid the conflict that kills.