In the interest of providing some quick statements to clarify information about Russia’s War in Ukraine, without continuing to amplify terrible takes, please consider this simple thread to help. 🧵
1. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is not because of NATO. Putin has made this clear repeatedly. He wants to take control of Ukraine. There were plans to build a Greater Russia. This is a neo-colonial war. The West didn't force Ukraine to be anti-Russian either.
2. Ukrainians would love the war to end. But to suggest their rolling over and accepting Russian rule is the best case simply is ignorant of the facts. Ukrainians are fighting for their lives.
3. Diplomatic solutions would be lovely. However, Russia has, repeatedly, shown it will not follow through with solutions. Diplomacy is a two-way street. Until Russia is forced to comply, through potential security guarantees of Ukr. or otherwise, diplo will not be successful.
4. Russia is engaged in war crimes. They have purposefully hit civilian targets repeatedly. They have deported millions. There are reports of filtration camps, torture, and other illegal acts. They also target educational and cultural establishments.
a. Side note – if you wish to known more, I wrote for the Conversation, highlighting how the Post-WW2 period may be inspiring Russia’s actions today: theconversation.com/how-russias-fi…
5. Ukrainian defeat means Ukrainians living under a regime that has openly stated its intention to destroy Ukraine in all its forms: cultural, national, linguistic, etc. To Russia, Ukraine is not a real country.
6. Suffering will continue under Russian control. Those calling for peace must realize this. It's not just a matter of ending the war, it's considering what will happen those forced to remain under occupation. Peace will be complicated; consider also justice for war crimes.
7. Always consider the audience of Russian state TV, but especially Russian leaders. They know we are listening. They desire fear to bring an end to the consensus of help that is allowing Ukraine to continue to fight effectively. Support for Ukr. remains crucial for Ukr. victory
8. Listen to experts in the fields of Russian and Ukrainian history, politics, culture, society, media, etc. Following tweet has some suggestions.
a. Here is a *very* small sampling of those I follow and trust. See who else they amplify. Build your network: @steven_seegel @irgarner @mdyczok @SamRamani2 @AllysonEdwards1 @russianforces @ALanoszka @PopovaProf @ksvarnon @DrJadeMcGlynn @JohnVsetecka @jpaulgoode @KofmanMichael
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
