Democracy's being tested — again
Whether you believe that the wars with Iraq were necessary or not, Desert Storm excelled in the planning and the precision in which it was carried out. It was indeed executed with "shock and awe." It demonstrated our military at its best.
China, North Korea, Iran and Russia all respected our strength. Nearly 20 years have gone by; so, what has emboldened Putin to attack Ukraine?
Starting with Syria: President Obama stated that the Syrian regime must be removed. He led the opposing forces to believe they had America's backing. A line was drawn in the sand, stating that if chemical agents were used against their neighbors or opposition forces, it would be considered an act of war and America would respond with force.
Chemicals were used on two cities and Obama did nothing. Putin used that opportunity to move Russian fighter/bombers into Syrian territory and they effectively destroyed all of the cities that fought for reform.
Both of our political parties watched as American industries were transferred to Asian nations. China is now our industrial rival and holds $3-4 trillion of paper covering part of our national debt. Both political parties bow to their base and avoid addressing very serious threats, e.g. Russian cyber warfare and the obscene national debt.
Donald Trump came into power with his slogan Make America Great Again. He began by nearly destroying NATO. Thank God we still have 27 NATO nations to stand with us against Russian tyranny.
The Kurds helped diminish the ISS stronghold in Iraq. Friends in war meant little to Trump. Turkey forced the Kurds to abandon villages near its border. The Afghanistan war continued for years. Dates were mistakenly set for troop removal. President Biden rushed the process and hundreds of interpreters and friends who supported the war are still at the mercy of Taliban forces. This is about as low as a nation can get.
Trump's love affair with Putin allowed Russia to design and develop hypersonic missiles that our Patriot defense missiles will be hard pressed to shoot down.
Putin observed our lack of resolve and seized the opportunity to exploit our pacifism. Our democracy is being tested.
William O. Douglas once wrote, "We have a system which, though far from perfect, is strong with idealism. It gives elbow room for men of all races and all beliefs. It is vital and dynamic … We have the means of shaping the world in our pattern … The decision is in the hands of this generation. It is a challenge for our political competence.”
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Leonard Brant is a Post Falls resident.