You know what? Here’s something I want to say about the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
Both countries need to stop forcing their citizens to fight.
Yes, I’m talking about both Ukraine and Russia. Because from what we’ve seen, both countries have used forms of compulsory military service and mobilization to get people into the war.
And here’s the thing: How many of these people actually want to be there? How many ordinary citizens in both countries would rather just live their lives, spend time with their families, go to work, and not have to worry about being sent off to fight and potentially die in a war?
I’m willing to bet there are plenty.
And honestly, I don’t think the rest of the world wants this war to continue either. People want peace. People want stability. People want to stop seeing lives destroyed over a conflict that has gone on for years.
Now, I’m not saying Ukraine and Russia are identical in their circumstances, responsibilities, or reasons for fighting. Those are different discussions, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is an important part of that distinction.
But ordinary people on both sides are still human beings.
They have families. They have dreams. They have futures. And they shouldn’t have to spend their lives fighting and dying when what they really want might simply be to live in peace.
So please, enough.
Find a way to end this war. Find a way to negotiate. Find a way to achieve peace.
Because at the end of the day, I don’t think the average Russian or Ukrainian citizen wants to keep watching their country bleed.
People shouldn’t have to give up their lives just because their governments cannot find a way to end a war.