Your Opinion: Give Putin a way out
Frank Rycyk
Jefferson City
Dear Editor:
What is the best way to minimize casualties in Ukraine? Give Russian President Putin a way out.
We hear the word "humiliation" often in international affairs. "Humiliation" is a fighting word for many. "Humiliation" is what Putin perceived during the breakup of the Soviet Union.
We also hear the word "face." When one is humiliated, we hear of him or her "losing face." How can we help Putin "save face?" He may have "bitten off more than he is prepared to chew." What is the way out?
Often, in international affairs, we hear of asylum. A "neutral" country can offer protection to a fleeing tyrant.
Killing Putin will satisfy some people. Is this the best way? Surely he will defend himself. Will this minimize war deaths?
Bombing Russia might satisfy others. What will this accomplish? Many of us want what is best for everybody. This is often difficult to accomplish.
Let's offer Putin a face-saving way out. Let's offer Putin protection somewhere.
What about payment for damages? What about the money he may have stolen from the Russian people? Some may cry for "justice."
"Justice" is a complicated concept. Ask any judge.
A risk-benefit analysis may be in order. Do we risk more deaths in seeking "justice?"
Providing Putin with a face-saving pathway to survival may minimize casualties.