Lessons in how not to achieve peace in Ukraine

On March 7, there was a letter to the editor that suggested five measures to end the war in Ukraine. These suggestions included an immediate cease-fire in place, a cessation of American financial and material support for Ukraine and direct negotiations between Biden and Putin. These suggestions are dangerously naïve, however well-intentioned, and would not result in a peace. In fact, they read like they were based on Russian talking points.

1. A cease-fire in place would result in Russia being able to retain the territories it has already captured, a significant reward for its acts of aggression and brutality.

2. Cessation of American support for Ukraine would probably fracture the alliance that President Biden has put together, grossly diminishing the support that other countries offer. This would place Ukraine in a terrible bargaining position.

3. Direct discussion between Biden and Putin would have us making deals that the Ukrainians would have to fulfill. This would give credence to the Russian position that the United States instigated the war and Ukraine is a puppet.

Russia or the Soviet Union has invaded the following countries in my lifetime: Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine (three times). You could also consider their actions in Chechnya, Syria, Angola and other countries. Let’s face it, there are bad actors in the world who are willing to use force to take from others. The only reliable way to prevent/counter this aggression is to raise the price to a level they are not willing to pay.

— Tom Thomas, Louisville