Let me begin by reaffirming that I have no intention of seeing the US and Russia initiate a nuclear exchange. I also appreciate the US and NATO effort to supply Kyiv with the arms and ammunition to fend off what Russia calls a “special operation” while the rest of us see it as an unprovoked attack, a war. In addition, I appreciate the UN’s brokering an agreement that would allow Ukraine to ship its grain from Odesa. Unfortunately, Moscow has proven once again that it cannot be trusted to keep its promise by bombing Ukraine’s port facility the day after it had signed the agreement. It also is insisting that its navy escort any grain shipments in the Black Sea.
From where I sit Russia’s action call for some response from the US/NATO. Letting Putin get away with another provocation is not an option. Last time I checked Turkey was a member of NATO and has as much or more interest in activity in the Black Sea as any country including Russia. Why can’t it, along with the assistance of others including US naval forces, provide protection and escort for any grain shipments originating from Ukraine? Russia, by its unprovoked invasion of that country, has lost all right to dictate to others what it can and cannot do.
I admit that Russia and this part of the world lay far outside my area of expertise. The destruction of apartment buildings, hospitals, schools, and other civilian infrastructure appearing daily on TV, however, cries out in my mind for the US to do more. Maybe my idea is infeasible or even crazy, but I can’t help but believe something more should be done. Being afraid of our shadow is certainly not the answer. I ask my SubStack friends more knowledgeable of such matters than myself to let me know where I’ve erred in my thinking and share your thoughts on what more we can do to support Ukraine. I still hold fast to my view we are being too timid in our response to repeated Russian provocations. What say you?
Carl,
With regard to your idea, check out Fareed Zakaria's interview with Adm Mike Mullen. Mullen shares his views on using the US Navy in the Black Sea. It's Fareed's last question. Mullen's a good guy to have in your corner.
Dennis D.
I completely agree. Let’s get moving.