We should all be students of world history — especially if you are the president of the U.S. — in order to prevent repeating previous atrocities. Ukraine is a sovereign nation. Ukraine is a rich, fertile land with a beautiful culture, heritage, language, religions, diversity and history. Ukraine has suffered under the hand of oppression, primarily Russian, for far too long.

In the aftermath of WWI and the Russian revolution, Ukraine was forced into the USSR. Between 1932 and 33, Ukrainians suffered a famine imposed by Soviet leaders. With WWII, the Soviets further decimated Ukraine. In 1986, the Chernobyl disaster occurred. In 1991, Ukraine declared its independence, and in 2014, Putin violently annexed Crimea. On February 24, 2022 the world witnessed the unlawful invasion of Ukraine by Russia.

Americans believe in democracy, freedom and the right to a sovereign nation. Americans have fought and died for freedom and democracy. Ukrainians also continue to shed blood for their right to independence. If the U.S. were unlawfully attacked by a foreign adversary, you would bet this country would stand together to defend, uphold and protect. The facts show that Ukraine did not start this war! Ukraine has accounted for the aid provided to it, and President Zelensky is not a dictator. Ukraine’s martial rule does not permit voting during a war. Ukraine cannot open their doors to election interference by Putin and risk inserting a Russian sympathizer to become president. Slava Ukraini!

Olia Webb

Lebanon