One of the biggest recent changes in Washington is the abandonment of NATO and our allies, including Ukraine. Russia is celebrating, and that’s a repressive place where people have no First Amendment rights. 81% of Americans don’t trust Putin, yet our President repeats Putin’s lies, turning U. S. support toward Russia.

“Putin is a war criminal and should be in jail for the rest of his life, if not executed,” responded Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Wicker (R-MS) recently. Sen. Kennedy (R-LA) said of Putin: “He is an evil man.” I am glad a few Republicans are speaking up! Now, where is Gov. Ayotte on this? It does matter in New Hampshire, since, already, turning from allies is hurting our relationship with Canada. New Hampshire leaders, especially Republicans, have power to pressure the administration.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, we’ve spent ~1.5% of the U. S. budget for Ukraine. Yes, it’s a lot of money, $174 billion. But that’s little in comparison to the costs we could see from losing freedoms, democracies and international peace. The U. S. is weaker without allies. Putin is not a friend. Maybe the White House is just blustering, negotiating. But, in case it isn’t, speak up! Help make sure this pro-Putin vision does not continue. Demand our leaders, state and federal, reject it and continue to support Ukraine and NATO. And do a small thing: Put out a Ukraine flag.

Ned Beecher

Tamworth