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Zahra Khan
World / Business
Thursday, April 14, 2022 | Concordiensis
khanz4@union.edu
Political science Prof. Brown comments on Russia-Ukraine Zahra Khan World/Business Editor
Russia withdrew its troops from Kyiv and northern Ukraine to Belarus and Russia and has now turned its attention to eastern Ukraine. According to a CNN report, Russia wants to completely “liberate” Donbas “which broadly refers to Ukraine’s eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, where Russian-backed separatists fore the invasion.” While troop numbers are currently expanding in the Donbas, Russia is simultaneously launching air and artillery attacks on Kharkiv and other cities. The constant devastation in Ukraine is neverending. The missile attack on Kramatorsk
train station, for instance, left 50 people killed and many injured. Sergei, a volunteer with the Ukrainian army claimed “you just don’t understand the motivation of the people who did this. What was this for?” As this tragedy continues on, Union’s community has actively been spreading awareness about the happenings of Ukraine. Staff members have taken time to discuss not only the current happenings regarding the invasions by Russia, but the motives behind the attacks. Professor Clifford Brown, who teaches Political Science courses here at Union, kindly agreed to provide his insight on Putin’s motivation, the impact this war may have upon other countries, and a possible end to this war. While it has been high-
lighted amongst news sources that the purpose of Putin’s attacks upon Ukraine is imperialism, Professor Brown highlights another motive—a land bridge. Professor Brown explained that Putin wants to create a land bridge between the Donbas region and Crimea. This bridge will provide a secure way for Putin to keep access to Crimea. If he does not succeed there, he has nothing to show for the invasion. Outside of Russia and Ukraine, major European stance, and condemned Russia’s actions. Germany for instance, who on the one hand is a part of NATO but on the other depends upon Russia’s oil, has planned to cut off dependence on Russia’s energy massively. Professor Brown elaborated when
it comes to European countries’ willingness to take an economic hit in exchange of policy to sanctioning Russia, they have been proactive. Professor Brown gave the example of the United Kingdom being proactive in providing weapons to Ukraine, and how the UK has done more to provide for the Ukrainian army over any other country beside the United States. Professor Brown notes that through the increase of these sanctions, a lot of pressure could be put on Putin, providing a possible end to this war. As previously mentioned by Professor Brown, the land bridge is crucial. If the land bridge is maintained, Russia immediately holds the upper hand. A Russian victory may also have something to do with May 9th, known as Vic-
tory Day in Russia. Professor Brown explained that may mean Putin will try to intensify the war in the very near future, which is why the troops have been removed from the Kiev area and sent to the east to escalate the war to give proof of victory. Regardless, there is a long road ahead.
Imran Khan removed as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Zahra Khan World/Business Editor
In the morning of April 10, Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan was removed an international cricket star— became a prominent politician. Khan was said to have introduced a new era of leadership and policy within the country and secured the support of many. As stated from BBC news, “He emerged as a fresh force, with vibrant rallies full of
catchy songs, along with his huge social media presence, ruption message.” Although Imran Khan rose to power with the help of Pakistan’s army, the army eventually removed Khan’s primary goals included improving governance, expanding the social welfare system, and introducing a health insurance scheme. However, he was met with major criticism when he appointed an inexperienced individual as Chief Minister of Punjab. People were also angered at the extremely high cost of
living. Khan’s vision and policies introduced major political enemies to him. According to the Washington Post, to try to maintain his popularity, Khan held many campaigns that included “nationalist and religious themes.” Despite this attempt, opposers managed to gather enough votes to get rid of Khan’s political power. As the Washington Post reports, Khan in turn dissolved the legislature and wanted the vote to be canceled, claiming it was based upon “an illegal foreign conspiracy.” Opposers claimed Khan’s actions were illegal. The court
also ruled Khan’s actions as illegal. According to the Washington Post, Imran Khan displayed a “private diplomatic message” saying “a U.S. government during a meeting in early March.” A vote took place and Imran Khan was This historic event, including having no parliament for a week, shifted the political spectrum within the country.
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