Russia’s Misspeak

Putin warns the world to stay away from their dispute with Ukraine. Putin claims Ukraine did not do as they were told. Other nations told to stay out of the situation. Putin defines interference as anything that hampers Russia’s progress in and through Ukraine.

Well now, the entire historic episode of Russia vs Ukraine is defined by Russia and no one else. According to them, they are the sole definers of the issue. Thus, if you disagree with them, you are an enemy and are in danger of violent retaliation.

OK. That set’s the record straight.

But does it? Seems to me Putin has backed himself into a corner. No one has attacked Russian assets on Russian soil. They have attacked Ukrainian assets on Ukrainian soil, however. They are not at war? They are not to be retaliated against. Really? That would be true only in the vocabulary of the school yard bully.

The world community is coming together to help Ukraine in a David and Goliath moment. Ukraine has been boosted a bit, but their main force of might is their internal will against Goliath. Although David has lost many lives, homes, infrastructure and economic properties, Russia has not gained power over Ukraine. Russia has paid dearly for this failure to date. They have lost upwards of 15,000 military personnel, they have lost entire columns of tanks, trucks and personnel carriers. And they are depleting their storehouse of old missiles and bombs. They have even lost fighter jets.

To say nothing of losing face.

Yet Putin claims World War III is on the edge of starting because the world community stands up for Ukraine? Mind you, no damage has been done to Russia in Russia by Ukrainian or NATO military forces. So Russia claims they may use nuclear armaments if provoked? And who defines provoked? Whose back is against the wall? Putin’s? Who put him in that position? Putin. So, what provocation is Putin speaking of?

Nuclear war destroys everything in its path. Both sides lose. Enormously. Future generations may lose their health, life and peace of mind given the horrible effects of radiation and injuries.

No one wins a nuclear war.  Besides, he who survives presides over a world of destruction and unusable landscapes and assets. No win. Just lose-lose.

Tell me again why Putin is doing this? Is he insane? Does his nation have no power over him? Is this what his people want from him?

So many questions. Too few answers that matter.

May 2, 2022

 

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