In his latest address State of the Union this Tuesday, Joe Biden sent a message of solidarity with Ukraine, saying:
“Let each of us here tonight in this Chamber send an unmistakable signal to Ukraine and to the world. We the United States of America stand with the Ukrainian people [who have known 30 years of independence]. Throughout our history we’ve learned that when dictators do not pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos. Now is the hour. Our moment of responsibility. Our test of resolve and conscience, of history itself. (…) To protect freedom and liberty, to expand fairness and opportunity. We will save democracy.”
Such an address may seem like a positive expression of solidarity towards those suffering. However, the context of previous decades shows it is, in fact an attempt to maintain the image of the US as the benevolent liberator and saviour that has for decades been used to justify military interventions on foreign soil.
It is also important to remember that US became the only government in the world to recognise Israel’s annexation of Golan Heights, as well as the general support of Israel’s occupation. Safety has not been a consideration during the US occupation of Iraq. US left Afghanistan and its people marred by years of military “peace interventions” at the mercy of the terrorist regime of Taliban.
The brunt of the political crises has been taken by the civilians who have suffered terrible losses, leaving them without rights, and packing their lives into one suitcase and set into the unknown.
Therefore, in this whirlwind of political chaos that is unraveling, it is essential not to lose sight of the possible motives behind this clash of Western and Eastern political powers on both sides. Defeating one imperialist force in favour of falling under the influence of another can never be a solution towards freedom.
Indeed, choosing the side of peace and democracy means opposing Russian aggression. Still, it also means standing against NATO’s influence. No to Russia, no to NATO, our solidarity is with the people!