Russian President Vladimir Putin has recently begun deploying an arsenal of missiles and rockets along Ukraine’s border. While the two countries have very different military strengths, this latest development has heightened the possibility of a conflict. But how does this war affect Ukraine? Here are some facts to consider: Russia is a world leader in missile technology. Its missiles are capable of incapacitating Ukraine’s air defense system and capturing cities and ports. Ukraine has built up its military strength over the past few years, largely through contributions from Western European countries.
The United States, as well as the European Union and the G7, have warned Russia that it could invade Ukraine. The United States has since sent anti-tank weapons to Ukraine, and the Pentagon has increased its military presence in Europe. US President Joe Biden has pledged to make it more difficult for Moscow to attack Ukraine, and he has warned Moscow of the consequences of war, including economic sanctions. The United States has also imposed sanctions on the separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, as well as the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.
The conflict in Ukraine poses a serious moral challenge to Europe and the rest of the world. Human rights have been trampled, the UN Charter has been mocked, and values have been violated. We cannot remain irrational or indifferent to this – even if we think there’s a chance for peace.