A Tug-of-War for Power

                Although the pictures being shown of Ukraine look movielike, the events taking place in this European country are very real as the tug-of-war for control between the U.S. and Russia continues. The people of Ukraine are paying a violent price due to these disputes when all they ever wanted was a chance to establish a better future for their families. A trade pact, signed by President Viktor Yanukovych, which was then revoked is the sole start of these protests that have cost many people their lives. This pact, which was so important to the economic growth of many European Union countries, would have opened trade borders allowing important political ties to be made as well as the modernization of many developing countries. The President had both selfish and logical reasons to pull away from this agreement such as Russia’s opposition, and the impending release of his major political opponent, former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. The people of Ukraine began protesting against their leader’s decisions, demanding that he sign the pact to benefit them and better their lives, and when his bribery failed to stop their resistance, Yanukovych signed an anti-protest law that tried to stop people from wearing helmets and masks to their various protests. The people were also kept from setting up tents or sound equipment without prior police permission, which wasn’t administered. In response to this law that many found ridiculous and just another restriction to add to the growing list, the people rebelled even more which resulted in worse consequences.

                Freedom of speech and beliefs are a very important concept in the United States, and they directly affect me. I want to be able to believe in whatever I please and to speak my mind and say whatever I want. But it seems as though the people in Ukraine aren’t being given that option, despite the U.S.’s heavy involvement. It’s scary to see that the opposition to sign one law has brought on such destruction. 25 people, including 7 police officers, have died and hundreds more have been injured, many in critical condition. These casualties are continuing to grow as the riots increase.

                The United States has involved themselves in this Ukraine dispute for many reasons. For starters, they are concerned for a more stable Europe, eliminating mass destructions like this one. If Ukraine’s riots increase even more than they already are, it is likely that more European states will involve themselves and then war will be at our front door. The U.S. also wants to help this country develop a more democratic based government that will best benefit their people. And while we want to look out for an ally, the issues involved are causing unease in the relationship between the U.S. and Russia. This creates widespread problems. In response to these protests, Russia has already exported military exercises to take control and solve a problem that has gone on far too long. And while some in Ukraine agree that Russia should take complete control of their neighbor, others disagree as they side with the U.S. So you can see why this has rid the two sides of all “friendly terms”.