Russia and Ukraine’s relationship over the last eight years has been tense. Russia built up its military presence near the Ukrainian border, fueling speculation that Russia plans to invade Ukraine. With this knowledge, NATO has been willing to discuss the de-escalation of
potential conflict.
This conflict has been happening for eight years now, as it began in 2014 over territory. Russia invaded Crimea and parts of the Donbas, hoping to annex these territories. Russia was able to annex both places and have treated people terribly. In 2017, Ukraine opened a case against Russia, accusing them of being responsible for discrimination and terrorism within Crimea and the Donbas.
The United States and its allies have started to involve themselves in this conflict and have refused to bow down to Russia’s wishes of banning Ukraine from NATO. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that no country should be banned from joining any international alliance. At this time, the US has chosen to remain diplomatic rather than fighting on the ground.
Although the United States and NATO remain peaceful right now, it is only a matter of time before this changes. President Biden has warned the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of a potential Russian invasion. The situation has escalated, as Russia has made it difficult for US citizens to leave Ukraine.
Our Perspectives:
The United States has no business of getting involved in this conflict. The main priority of the US should be to evacuate its citizens, not start another war. The Biden Administration has warned that it “will not be in a position to evacuate US citizens” from Ukraine. Considering the mishandled withdrawal of citizens in Afghanistan this summer, this is highly alarming.
According to the New York Times, President Biden is considering sending troops to Eastern Europe, but this will likely be disastrous. The US has a history of invading foreign countries, killing innocent civilians, and escalating conflict, notably in the Iraq and Vietnam Wars.
After historically bad outcomes of these conflicts, the question is, why? How many more must die for the US Government to realize that it is often a danger rather than an asset in foreign affairs? US General Milley warns of a horrific outcome in the possibility that US Troops are sent to Eastern Europe.
Have an opposing viewpoint to this opinion? Let us know. All views are welcomed. Send your thoughts to our Editorial Staff – Editor Katherine Montgomery kmontgomery2@student.dean.edu or Dean Daily Faculty Advisor, Professor John Rooke jrooke@dean.edu