By John Q. Hosedrinker As I sit down to contemplate the current state of affairs in the realm of international diplomacy, a wave of frustration and disillusionment washes over me. The recent statements made by Scholz regarding the need for Russia to end the war with Ukraine in order to prevent the deployment of US missiles in Germany have left me grappling with conflicting emotions and thoughts.
The idea of pacifism, once a noble and unwavering principle that I held dear, now seems like a distant memory. The terms “peace”, “freedom”, and “pacifism” have all been twisted and manipulated to the point where they no longer hold their original meaning. It is disheartening to witness the German pacifist movement urging Ukraine to engage in peace negotiations while under attack by Russian forces, the clear aggressor in this conflict. The notion of sitting down at a negotiating table with a power-hungry authoritarian regime like Putin’s Russia seems not only naive but also dangerously delusional.
In a world where democracy is constantly under threat from authoritarian regimes seeking to expand their influence, the importance of standing up for what is right and just becomes increasingly apparent. Putin’s aggressive and imperialistic actions in Ukraine and towards NATO alliance members cannot be ignored or downplayed. The idea of NATO being an empire, as Putin seems to believe, is not only absurd but also dangerous. NATO is an alliance of democracies united in the mission to protect the principles of freedom, democracy, and peace.
Scholz’s call for Russia to end the war in Ukraine is not only a plea for peace but also a necessary step towards maintaining global security and stability. Russia’s blatant disregard for arms control agreements and aggressive behavior cannot go unchecked. While the thought of US missiles being deployed in Germany may seem unsettling at first, it is crucial to understand that deterrence is a key aspect of maintaining peace and security in a world fraught with threats and uncertainties.
The need for Germany to have deterrent forces and capabilities, including cruise missiles and long-range weapons, is a stark reminder of the realities of the world we live in today. In the face of Putin’s relentless pursuit of power and control, it is imperative that NATO members stand united and resolute in the face of aggression and provocation. The deployment of US missiles in Germany should not be seen as an act of aggression but rather as a necessary measure to safeguard the sovereignty and security of the region.
As I reflect on the precarious state of affairs in the world today, I am reminded of the timeless adage, “Si vis pacem, para bellum” – If you want peace, prepare for war. Putin’s Russia has shown time and time again that it will stop at nothing to achieve its expansionist goals. It is up to us, the defenders of democracy and freedom, to stand firm in the face of tyranny and aggression. The deployment of US missiles in Germany is not a sign of war-mongering but rather a sign of strength and resolve in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the words of Scholz ring true – Russia must end the war with Ukraine to prevent further escalation and potential conflict. The time for appeasement and negotiation with aggressors is over. It is time for NATO allies to stand united against the forces of tyranny and oppression, and to defend the values and principles that we hold dear. The path to peace is paved with strength, unity, and unwavering resolve – let us walk it together, hand in hand, towards a brighter and more secure future for all.