Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has shattered the productive coexistence that prevailed since the fall of the Berlin Wall. With war erupting in Ukraine, Europeans suddenly are faced with the defense of their democracies and their economies.
Germany has done just that by agreeing to ship lethal weapons to Ukraine and to increase its defense spending to more than 2% of its GDP. Both announcements end German policies that have been in place for decades. For the first time, Germany appears likely to fully engage in global security matters. With the largest economy and largest population in Europe, Germany’s historic policy shift will lift some of the security burden off the U.S. Japan also is increasing its defense budget. Finland and Sweden appear edging toward joining NATO.
Russian President Putin is proving to be reckless and potentially unstable – threatening nuclear war every time things do not go Russia’s way. This is unacceptable for someone with a nuclear button. Hopefully, China’s President Xi will rethink expanding the relationship between China and Russia.
Supporting Ukraine may cost U.S. consumers higher gasoline prices and higher general inflation. What do Americans receive in return for higher inflation? 1) Less of the global security burden for America. 2) Confronting Russia without the cost of American lives. 3) Deferring a potential confrontation between the U.S. and China. This is a great deal for U.S. citizens. Please support the defense of Ukraine.
Thomas DeHudy
Durango
