How likely is WWIII?
Toreros weigh in on the Russia-Ukraine Border Crisis
SPENCER BISPHAM / ASST. NEWS EDITOR / THE USD VISTA
The threat of war looms over the Western world as Russia continues to gather its troops on the border of Ukraine. According to CNN, 65% of Russia’s land combat forces are currently gathered along the Ukrainian border, which suggests that Kremlin may be planning an invasion (similar to that of Crimea in 2014). World leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, are fearful that Russia’s desire to control Ukraine could draw other nations into a larger, global conflict.
In a statement to the American people, President Biden announced support for Ukraine on behalf of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization).
“The United States and our allies are prepared to defend every inch of NATO territory, from any threat to our collective security as well,” Biden said. “We [the United States] also will not send troops to fight in Ukraine but we will continue to support the Ukrainian people.”
Ukraine is not currently a member of NATO but has expressed interest in joining. Should this occur, it would make the U.S. and other nations responsible for protecting its territory.
USD Veterans Affairs Coordinator and Former Marine, Damar Jimenez, explained the specifics of what could occur if Ukraine were to join NATO.
“Geographically, Ukraine and Russia are neighbors,” she said. “So, this presents a problem in two ways: if Ukraine were to join NATO, it would undoubtedly raise alarms from the Kremlin; and if war were to break out, Russia would have an advantage in resupplying ground forces as well as CAS (Close Air Support) and heavy artillery. It would be devastating if NATO is unable to cut Russian supply lines within hours,” Jimenez said.
Jimenez also sees this situation as a potential threat to the world’s democracy.
“The possibility of war is there,’’ Jimenez said. “ I hope all countries involved are aware of the life-changing implication war will have. If Russia were to invade Ukraine it could jeopardize democracy in the world.”
Several Toreros have also started to become mindful of this scenario, including ROTC member Allen Antonio.
“I believe that the growing presence of allied military forces in the region is to deter the presence of Russian forces in the area,” Antonio said. “Until then, sources have confirmed that consistent measures have been taken into account for developing a diplomatic solution. Regardless, the role of the United States military is to remain prepared for any conflict that emerges. Training and showing presence with our international allies is crucial to sustaining the relationships we have with our European partners and abroad.”
USD junior, Surya Chandra, is also ready to go if the government deems it necessary.
“I mean, I’ll do what I need to do for the country,” Chandra said. “I considered joining the military when I was younger, so I’m not opposed to the idea, especially if it’s a good enough reason.”
Vidya Nadkarni, a professor in the department of Political Science, comments on what she believes will be the most prominent effects of the Russia-Ukraine tension on the United States.
“Americans will mostly be affected indirectly by paying higher prices for gas at the pump,” Nadkarni shared. “ International instability and energy market volatility will also affect the stock market negatively and cause upward inflationary pressures.
She continued by stating what the likely effects of these tensions will be for the United States.
“All these factors are likely to make it even more difficult for Democrats to win the midterm elections, especially if there is a large-scale war in Ukraine,” Nadkarni said. “Bottom line: in the short-term, Putin does not have to worry about public opinion in Russia, but Biden must worry about public support.”
Nadkarni also argues the likely overall effects on the world as a whole after this dispute settles.
“I don’t think anyone will come out a “winner” here. The question is relative levels of loss and of course, Ukraine faces an existential crisis. At the very least, it will lose the eastern part of its territory, but it could lose more territory than that under the control of the separatist republics, as Putin’s speech yesterday made clear that he considers a larger portion of the territory as legitimately part of Russia, even though Ukraine’s sovereignty is recognized by the world community.”
At the time The USD Vista went to press, Russian president, Vladimir Putin, had deployed peacekeeping forces into two regions of eastern Ukraine. He recognized these areas as independent from Ukraine in an address to the Associated Press on Monday.
“I consider it necessary to take a long overdue decision to immediately recognize the independence and sovereignty of Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic,” Putin said. “I’m asking the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation to support this decision, and then ratify treaties of friendship and mutual assistance with both republics.”
The tension between Russia, Ukraine, and the West remained palpable after this decision was made. With no clear resolution in sight, many countries remain vigilant of what is next to come of the situation.