KYIV – The continuing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with no peace agreement reached since the initial invasion in February 2022, serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for strong national defense, a commitment to Western values, and the unwavering support for allies facing aggression from authoritarian regimes. The current situation underscores the importance of preserving national sovereignty and resisting attempts to undermine the rules-based international order.

The conflict's roots lie in Russia's expansionist ambitions and its disregard for international law. Vladimir Putin's regime has consistently sought to destabilize Ukraine and prevent its integration into the Western alliance. This aggression poses a direct threat to the security and stability of Europe and the broader international community.

The failure to deter Russia's initial aggression in 2014, with the annexation of Crimea, emboldened Putin and set the stage for the full-scale invasion in 2022. The United States and its allies must learn from this mistake and take decisive action to deter future acts of aggression.

The provision of military assistance to Ukraine is essential to help the country defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This assistance should include advanced weapons systems, training, and intelligence support. The United States must also work with its allies to strengthen NATO and deter further Russian aggression.

Economic sanctions are a powerful tool for holding Russia accountable for its actions. The United States and its allies should continue to impose sanctions on Russia's economy, including its energy sector, and target individuals and entities that are supporting the Putin regime.

The conflict in Ukraine also highlights the importance of energy independence. The United States must increase its domestic energy production and reduce its reliance on foreign sources of energy, particularly from adversaries like Russia.

Furthermore, this situation highlights the need for strong borders and a robust immigration policy. The crisis underscores the importance of national security and the need to protect our own citizens. Open borders and lax immigration policies can create vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hostile actors.

The defense of freedom and democracy requires a strong military and a willingness to use it when necessary. The United States must maintain its military superiority and invest in new technologies to deter potential adversaries. We must also be prepared to defend our allies and partners around the world.

The absence of a peace agreement in Ukraine demonstrates the importance of standing firm against tyranny and defending our values. The United States must lead the way in supporting Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its aggression. Anything less would embolden authoritarian regimes and undermine the rules-based international order.

The lessons of the Ukraine conflict are clear: weakness invites aggression, and strength deters it. The United States must reaffirm its commitment to national defense, Western values, and the defense of freedom around the world.

The future of Ukraine, and indeed the future of the international order, depends on our resolve to stand up to aggression and defend our values. The United States must lead the way in supporting Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its actions. We must not allow Putin to succeed in his efforts to destabilize Europe and undermine the democratic world.