Opinion Piece: Securing Ukraine’s Future Amidst War and Politics

Russian president Vladimir Putin has shattered half a century of peace in Europe by waging war against Ukraine, endangering shared values and freedoms. It’s crucial that this aggression is met with unanimous condemnation and that Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and his people are provided with the means to defend themselves against vicious military bombardment.

It is deeply disappointing that billions of dollars of funding were stripped away from Ukraine as a result of partisan US politics. After displaying heroic resistance, it is unacceptable for Ukraine to fall victim to political games at such a critical time.

The success or failure of Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression will have consequences for the rest of the world. Allowing Moscow to bully one neighbor without consequence will undoubtedly lead to threats against other countries. Degrading Russia’s forces is crucial in reducing the risk they pose.

Although US president Joe Biden has expressed his commitment to supporting Ukraine, concerns are growing that the political landscape may make his job more difficult in the coming weeks.

The recent extraordinary meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council in Kyiv, attended by Tánaiste Micheál Martin, sends a strong signal of support to Ukraine. “We stand in solidarity with Ukraine, and the European Union is unwavering in our commitment to supporting the Ukrainian people as they defend their homeland,” said Mr. Martin.

It is difficult to imagine that America would abandon Ukraine. However, even the slightest hint of such a possibility has been seized upon by Moscow as evidence that the West is already losing interest in its ally.

The potential loss of an ally in Slovakia, following the election of Robert Fico, a pro-Moscow and anti-Kyiv campaigner, is also concerning. Along with Hungary’s Viktor Orban, this could result in two countries blocking EU aid for Ukraine.

Moscow will undoubtedly find great comfort in any wavering of support for Ukraine from the international community.

The best hope of ending this war lies in providing Ukraine with the means to repel Russia. The moral case for supporting Ukraine is clear – unprovoked aggression must be resisted. However, there are also material benefits to consider.

While the costs of this invasion have been calamitous, the consequences of an escalated war and Russia gaining the upper hand could be apocalyptic, with more countries inevitably being drawn into the conflict.