- United States
- N.D.
- Letter
The proposed US peace plan offering concessions to Russia in exchange for a frozen frontline in Ukraine is deeply concerning. Allowing Russia to forcibly seize and annex Ukrainian territory through military aggression would set a dangerous precedent that undermines international law and emboldens authoritarians worldwide to redraw borders through violence. Such a deal would betray Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russia's unprovoked invasion was a blatant violation of the UN Charter and represents an existential threat to the rules-based international order. Rewarding this lawless behavior with territorial gains and sanctions relief would only incentivize further acts of aggression by Russia and others. The US must stand firm in its support for Ukraine and uphold its commitments under the Budapest Memorandum guaranteeing Ukraine's territorial integrity. Instead of capitulating to Russia's demands, the US should increase military aid and toughen sanctions until all Russian forces withdraw from every inch of Ukrainian land, including Crimea which was illegally annexed in 2014. Crimping Russia's ability to wage war through economic pressure and isolating it diplomatically is crucial. Peace can only be achieved by respecting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Appeasing the aggressor through territorial concessions is simply unacceptable.