The Sochi Olympics are set to open and the eyes of the world are focussed on Russia. As well they should be, since neighbouring Ukraine is demanding our attention. Nobody wants to detract from the glorious spectacle of the Olympics. It is a celebration of things we wish really were, and for that brief fleeting moment they are, as athletes parade in and nations compete for medals, not control.
But what is unfolding in the Ukraine is ugly, and scary, and something history has visited upon us repeatedly. Since its independence in 1990, economic prosperity and political development have been hampered by recessions and rampant corruption. This is nothing new to Russia or the region. Even the drama for control between Victor Yanukovytch and Yulia Tymoshenko typified the way in which politics have always been conducted. What is different is that Ukraine is now a country of divided loyalties, torn between its history and bond with Russia, and its yearning to join the EU. Leaving the past behind to move ahead, progress.
These are the divisions that can drive a nation to civil war. Given the Ukraine’s recent history, these events remind me far too much of how quickly and violently Yugoslavia slid into the horrific war that ripped apart a modern, beautiful country. The world watched the aftermath of that. The brutal legacy of Bosnia and Sarajevo still live on. I know Putin is watching, very carefully. Which means the rest of the world needs to be on watch as well.
Issues and Intersections 