Envisage carrots beyond the stick

A recent visit to the beaches of Normandy provided the backdrop for powerful and clear reflections on the parallels between World War II and the present war in Ukraine. The unfolding situation is hauntingly familiar with an authoritarian despot disregarding basic human decency, breaking international law and brutalizing a neighboring country in Europe.

At this moment there are no apparent exit ramps for either party in the conflict. There are, however, possibilities to explore and here are six potential pathways to peace and healing: is exposed to his people via social media and other channels, the more disenchanted the average Russian citizen will become. Such a shift in domestic public awareness would not only encourage Putin to change course in Ukraine but it could also embolden the inner circles at the Kremlin and the oligarchs to make a change at the top.

Upon the withdrawal from Ukraine of the Russian forces, the senseless loss of blood and treasure will halt on both sides. This would be a signal to the Russians who have fled the country due to military conscription and the war (upwards of a million people) that they could consider returning home. Lifting the embargo will bring consumer goods that have been sorely missed by the Russian population.

The return to the world stage of Russian sports and culture will be a source of pride. In short, engaging the Russian people in a positive, post-war vision could potentially accelerate an end to the conflict. country’s citizenry has been incalculable.

The return of peace will be the first and most fundamental step to healing. It will allow families to reunite, children to sleep without sirens and explosions, businesses to reopen, and life to return to normal in cities, towns and villages.

Additionally, there are evidence-based tools to deal with stress, anxiety and in extreme cases, PTSD. Transforming trauma needs to be a central part of the support for Ukraine during these latter stages of the war and thereafter.