Last weekend I attempted to channel Ukraine by making a big pot of Borscht. (We’ve almost made our way through it.)
Paired with rustic bread and a hearty wine all that was missing was a lively Yiddish tune in the background.
Who am I kidding?
The only thing that meal has in common with today’s Ukraine is the unfortunate coincidence that the soup’s beet-red color mimics their blood-soaked battlefields.
The lucky put up with intermittent heat and electricity. Others mourn their dead. They all are fearful of what the future holds.
I was anxious about Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s visit to the U.S. Wednesday — his first trip out of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion 300 days ago.
Besides his personal safety, I worried whether members of Congress would give him the respect he deserves.
Would there be offensive shout-outs — or worse.
Thankfully, Mr. Zelenskyy was enthusiastically received by the joint session, demonstrating most recognize that what’s at stake involves more than just Ukraine.
After hearing Mr. Zelenskyy’s impassioned address, I can’t fathom denying his request for more aid because, as he so clearly explained, “Your money is not charity. It’s an investment in global security and democracy ……
“This battle cannot be frozen or postponed. It cannot be ignored assuming that an ocean or something else will provide protection.”
“From the United States to China, from Europe to Latin America … the world is too interconnected and interdependent” to think this war will remain contained if not stopped now.
Earlier in the day, President Joe Biden, who has done a masterful job in uniting European leaders in support of Ukraine said, “We understand in our bones that Ukraine’s fight is part of something much bigger. The American people know if we stand by with such blatant attacks on democracy and liberty … the world would surely face worse consequences.”
NOT EVERYONE seems to care.
Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the likely incoming House majority leader, is urging fellow Republicans to vote against the omnibus spending package that includes $45 billion in emergency funds to Ukraine, crucial to maintaining its defense against the Russian incursion.
