During the 1980s and 1990s, there was a prevailing optimism that the world was advancing toward democracy and freedom. American leaders articulated this vision, emphasizing the fragility of freedom and the necessity of continual defense.
Ronald Reagan rightly asserted that “freedom is a fragile thing and it’s never more than one generation away from extinction. … It must be fought for and defended constantly.”
Reagan’s words resonated, shaping belief in America’s pivotal role as a beacon of liberty. While the optimism of that era painted a picture of progress toward democracy and freedom, today’s global landscape presents a starkly different reality.
Today, democracy and freedom are under threat worldwide. The conflict in Ukraine stands as an example of this challenge. Ukraine’s struggle transcends a territorial dispute; it serves as a litmus test for the endurance of democratic values. Russia’s brazen aggression, exemplified by its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and blatant disregard for international law, raises concerns about the potential for similar acts of aggression elsewhere.
Figures such as David Petraeus have highlighted the potential for Russian expansion into regions like Moldova or the Baltic states, with Sweden and Finland also facing threats.
Additionally, Russia’s aggressive maneuvers in the Black Sea pose a multifaceted threat, extending beyond Ukraine to disrupt international trade and impede freedom of navigation. The disruption of maritime routes has ripple effects on global food supplies and prices, imposing hardships on millions and driving up shipping costs for essential goods and energy resources.
This conflict serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our world. As highlighted by The New York Times, instability in one region can send shockwaves across continents, affecting the lives of individuals far beyond the immediate conflict zone.
When democratic ideals are threatened, we must recognize that our partnerships with like-minded nations are indispensable. Failing to stand by Ukraine not only undermines trust in the United States but also emboldens adversaries. By reaffirming our commitment to our allies, we reinforce the foundation of the international order, which is essential for maintaining global stability and fostering prosperity. Our robust international relationships constitute a significant competitive advantage, and neglecting them risks compromising our position. We must safeguard these relationships at all costs, as they may be vital in our own time of need.
Some have questioned why we should continue to allocate aid to Ukraine when we have pressing domestic issues. While addressing domestic challenges is crucial, supporting Ukraine represents a strategic investment for the United States.
A significant portion of U.S. funding for Ukraine directly benefits American interests, as it flows to domestic companies involved in the production and modernization of military equipment. Research by the Institute for the Study of War indicates that 84 percent of U.S. funding for the conflict in Ukraine supports American companies, stimulating our economy and bolstering our military capabilities.
Moreover, this assistance facilitates the training of Ukrainian forces by U.S. and allied personnel, further enhancing our military readiness and strategic partnerships. Aid to Ukraine is a win-win scenario, strengthening our national security and economy while upholding our commitment to global stability.
The conflict in Ukraine transcends geographical boundaries. It directly affects American interests and values. Through our support for Ukraine, we not only bolster our economy and strengthen partnerships but also play a pivotal role in safeguarding the international order.
Standing firmly with Ukraine demonstrates our commitment to democracy, freedom and the rule of law. In doing so, we lay the foundation for a more secure and prosperous future for generations to come.