Freedom, democracy in Ukraine sure a bit bizarre

 Freedom, democracy in Ukraine sure a bit bizarre

The recent Trump, Putin diesel fuel deal designed to drop diesel under $6 a gallon ahead of the election has got the endless Ukraine war crowd promoting Ukrainian freedom and democracy as the cause they're fighting for.


But these folks, shielded from the reality of political life in Ukraine, are oblivious how unfree, undemocratic Ukraine is, and how unpopular acting President Zelensky and his endless war against Russia are.


Zelensky’s 5 year term expired May 20, 2024 but he’s cancelled elections while he rules Ukraine dictatorially under martial law. He’s banned all opposition media and rivals, even jailing and torturing some. Over 7 million Ukrainians have fled the former Ukrainian democracy. Running out of troops to serve as cannon fodder, young men and teens are scooped up off the streets while their wives and mothers beg for their release.


No wonder Zelensky’s approval and trust ratings hover around 40%. Three quarters of Ukrainians want immediate negotiations to end the war destroying all vestiges of life in Ukraine with no hope of reversal.


And in alleged despotic Russia? Putin, in his third year as duly elected Russian president, enjoys approval and trust ratings over 70%. Thousands of recruits flock to enlistment centers monthly to complete pushback to NATO expansion to put nukes on Russia’s borders in Ukraine and prevent further destruction of Russian leaning Ukrainians in Donbas.


Supporters of continuing the war in Ukraine till the last Ukrainian soldier is dead can use thousands of words in their support. But freedom and democracy are two words that should be left out.


Walt Zlotow, West Suburban Peace Coalition, Glen Ellyn IL