Putin's Missile Warning to Zelensky After Biden's Move
Oreshnik Launched in Dnipro; U.S. Arms Supply Fuels War, Trump's Peace on Horizon
Right after U.S. President Biden authorized Ukraine to use new tactical weapons in their fight against Russia, Putin sent over a warning to Zelensky in the form of a new intermediate-range ballistic missile called the Oreshnik to Dnipro, Ukraine. It seems, from the start, Biden has wanted to expand his proxy war with Russia via Ukraine, keeping the military-industrial complex alive and well.
The deployment of new military technology like the Oreshnik missile is alarming, though expected as a direct response to Biden’s actions. Russia's use of such advanced weaponry signals an intention to maintain or expand territorial control. It shows they are not on their last leg as the Biden administration tried to gaslight Americans into thinking. While Putin has repeatedly called for talks of peace, Zelensky and Biden do not have any of it.
On the surface, the United States’ expansion of military support to Ukraine may seem like support for a nation defending its sovereignty, but Americans who are paying attention know better.
By arming one side in a conflict, the U.S. is encouraging riskier behavior from Ukraine, assuming that U.S. support will continue unabated. This could lead to a more drawn-out conflict, with unnecessary suffering and destruction. Yet, with Trump soon to be in the White House, we could quickly see an end to the bloodshed and financing of this horrible altercation between Russia and Ukraine. Trump will likely turn off the spigot of taxpayer money and U.S. weapons finding their way to Ukraine.
Trump’s first step will likely be to diplomatic efforts (which are most likely already underway). If Trump is not quickly successful, then neutral parties or international bodies should facilitate negotiations, focusing on de-escalation, peace talks, and perhaps referendums in contested regions to reflect the will of the local populations.
While an argument could easily be made for the U.S. to help refugees, rebuilding infrastructure and supporting civil society could address the root causes of discontent and instability rather than fueling the war machine. However, any rebuilding costs should not be on the shoulders of America.
Any future U.S. military involvement in other countries should come with transparency. One thing that has been lacking in the U.S.’s support of Ukraine has been accountability. The American public, whose tax dollars are at stake, deserves to know how their money is being spent, and accountability mechanisms should be in place to ensure aid does not perpetuate corruption or prolong conflict.
