I can’t turn on the TV or listen to the news and not feel rage and sadness. Women and children fleeing their homes and friends. Their husbands, sons and brothers staying behind to protect their land, their way of life, and their freedom.

We’ve sat back and watched this happen before. Right after World War II, again in Hungary in 1956, and then more recently in Crimea and Ukraine’s eastern provinces.

Yes, I am sure that the President and his western allies are doing what they feel they can to try to inflict pain on Putin and his thugs. Unfortunately, by the time the economic sanctions really are felt, the outmanned, out-trained, out-gunned Ukraine will be occupied by Russia. Then what?

I am against war. I’ve protested every US military engagement since I returned from Vietnam in 1968, totally against that war. I’ve written to presidents, editors, and participated in anti-war marches ever since. Without much success.

However, this time I would march for war for the Ukrainians. I would ask this country and others to do more than they are doing now. Yes, it is dangerous to do so. Yes, it will cost lives and money. But to not do more—when we have the power to do more is immoral.

When a courageous, democratic nation stands up to a ruthless, autocratic leader, it should not stand alone.

Arthur C. Benedict
Peaks Island