America Should Lead for Peace in Ukraine

As Russia’s war against Ukraine continues into its third year, the United States has the opportunity to broker a ceasefire deal that ends the brutal violence and strengthens our position on the world stage. As Vladimir Putin calls for the dismantling of Ukraine’s military and the ceding of Ukraine land to Russia, it is crucial that a ceasefire not be an appeasement to Russia, but a deal that restores peace in the region and guarantees the safety and security of the Ukrainian people.

The costs of the war have been intense, both in lives and finances. Ukraine has reported tens of thousands of military and civilian casualties since the beginning of the war, and much of the nation’s population has been displaced across other European nations. I have long supported aiding Ukraine with financial and military resources, and the United States has been the leader in supporting Ukraine’s right to defend their sovereignty against this unwarranted aggression.

While Congress is busy at work on issues here at home, we cannot ignore Russia’s military development in the northwest part of their country, along the borders of NATO allies like Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. We need to identify ways the United States can continue to support Ukraine, keep an adversarial Putin at bay, and ensure European allies invest their fair share in defense spending to help deter future aggression. 

In brokering a strong ceasefire between Ukraine and our adversary, Russia cannot be allowed to win. Standing up for peace amidst this conflict gives the United States the upper hand if Russia is held accountable for the invasion of a sovereign country. If Putin gets what he wants from Ukraine and walks away unburdened, then he can quickly turn his attention to our NATO allies. A ceasefire agreement will save lives and resources, but it must be done in pursuit of long-term peace, not just a temporary ceasefire. 

President Ronald Reagan often referred to the United States as a “shining city on a hill”, a testament to how we were once viewed in geopolitical matters. We have an opportunity before us to confirm that the United States stands against aggressors and with those pursuing democracy. Serving as a broker for peace falls directly in line with that belief. Ukraine has fought bravely, and the United States should continue to support their efforts, but make no mistake that Russia and our other adversaries are watching closely how we approach a resolution to this conflict.