'..the U.S. and Europe .. helping Kiev's government succeed and prosper as it sets out to chart a future of its own and limiting Putin's ability to replicate his acts of intimidation.'<blockquote>'Western nations seemed caught off-guard by Putin's "incredible act of aggression," as Kerry termed it .. the U.S. and Europe have been shaken up by events, and they may yet send a message of their own, helping Kiev's government succeed and prosper as it sets out to chart a future of its own and limiting Putin's ability to replicate his acts of intimidation.
Kerry's visit to Kiev was a powerful moment. His unvarnished message to Putin, if backed by action, was a respectable start. The U.S. would prefer to see this crisis resolved through negotiations, he declared, but if Russia chooses not to do so, Washington's and its partners "will isolate Russia politically, diplomatically and economically." Already the EU is offering Ukraine an aid package comparable to the one Putin used to lure it away. Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel is boosting ties with Poland and the Baltic States, and economic sanctions are under discussion.
If Putin wants another Cold War, he has one.'
- Frida Ghitis,
5 lessons for a new Cold War, March 6, 2014</blockquote>
Context<blockquote>
'..the filthy Quislings..' - Churchill (Houses of Congress, 26 December 1941)'..Ukraine's independence .. crucial to European security.''..Building Support for U.S. Natural Gas Export.'</blockquote>