We must support Ukraine

On Dec. 5,1994, Ukraine signed an agreement wherein it would dispose of its nuclear weapons, which were the world’s third-largest nuclear arsenal, for a guarantee by the U.S., U.K. and Russia to provide Ukraine’s security. Ukraine relinquished its nuclear weapons to Russia. Subsequently, Russia attacked Ukraine in 2014 and occupied Crimea.

In 2022, Russia attacked again and now occupies eastern provinces of Ukraine.

The Unites States should continue providing military equipment and supplies to Ukraine to belatedly comply with the security agreement we signed in 1994.

 Maybe we should provide loans to Ukraine instead of grants of funds and equipment, or have Ukraine repay us with their abundant supply of rare earth minerals which we need. We are negotiating with Ukraine on this matter.

Unfortunately, Secretary of Defense Hegseth significantly set back peace negotiations when he said Ukraine cannot go back to its pre-2014 borders, which relinquishes Crimea and land in eastern Ukraine to Russia. He also said it is unrealistic for Ukraine to join NATO, and Europe must take on a greater role in its security. This is a capitulation to Russia before negotiations even start, and it could increase Russian threats to Europe.

– Donald Moskowitz, Londonderry, N.H.