Russia and Developments in Ukraine

Ukraine appears to have mobilized around its new President. Ukrainian Armed Forces have been actively re-closing their border with Russia and pushing back Russian separatists. At the same time, President Putin's instigation of this conflict continues to breed uncertainty as to whether a corner has, in fact, been turned. President Putin is entirely capable of trying to divide Ukraine one day and then, when the international community applies pressure, withdraw from the scene long enough to avoid the international community's scrutiny, while effectively continuing his aggression to achieve his intended goal. The U.S. should not hesitate to act unilaterally to support an independent Ukraine and counter malign Russian interference when delay threatens these goals, our strategic objectives, or our national interests. In the long run, a stable and secure region will serve our national interests and enhance opportunities for U.S. and European businesses.