Tension had been mounting for a while, but when the Russians finally pushed into Ukrainian territory, the world was shocked at the audacity nonetheless.
For Filipinos, our main concern was the more than 300 OFWs in Ukraine and the grim specter of higher prices of oil and other goods, especially since we are still grappling with the lingering economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But we cannot afford to see this conflict from just an outsider’s eyes. Empathy and basic humanity allow us to imagine what it must be like for ordinary Ukrainians—children, parents, workers—who must now deal with upheaval, not to mention the constant threat of death. Everyday occurrences the rest of us take for granted are now mere memories for this troubled people.
As always, the actions of the decision makers affect the lives of millions. There is almost universal condemnation of Putin’s expansionist aggression, and other countries are making their displeasure felt in different ways—economic sanctions, for instance, or a pariah status for Putin on the international stage. The question is whether Putin would respond to this kind of action, or would instead be emboldened to take his ambition further, pleased with the attention he is getting.
The conflict in Ukraine is most instructive of human nature, showcasing one man’s expansionist, autocratic tendencies and the insatiable need to acquire yet more, whatever the cost to other people and societies. It also shows how interests between and among Russia and other players in the West temper the latter’s swift and adequate response to the conflict. Furthermore, it highlights the qualities in a leader who would preside over the country during critical times.
The David of the situation, Ukrainian President Volodomyr Zelenskyy, has recently chosen to stay in his country despite risks to his safety and despite being offered safe transit by the United States, telling Washington he “needed ammunition, not a ride.” Zelenskyy, a former actor and satirist, is trying his best to stand up to Russia and to rally the international community behind him. For their part, and whatever they feel about their president, Ukrainians will look to Zelenskyy for guidance and direction—his most difficult role to play, it turns out.
It is unclear whether talks would materialize, much less succeed, to put an end to the conflict. In the meantime, as we observe what happens in that part of the world, may we always be reminded that it is the decision of the leaders that would doom or save their country and dictate the fate of their people. It is thus crucial that we choose the leaders who would be knowledgeable, prudent, patriotic, and who would always have our best interests ahead of their own.
