Letter to the editor: Peace plan could save Putin's soul

An open letter to Vladimir Putin:

Dear President Putin:

When first you became president, there were a few of us Americans who may have thought, privately, “Finally, a Russian leader who knows how to get things done.” Frankly, sir, we were wrong about your judgment when it comes to foreign affairs.

Starting a war with your neighbor, Ukraine, that could lead to World War III was a stupid move. Plus which, your incursion into Ukraine has potentially involved war crimes, including the indiscriminate shelling and killing of civilians, including women and children. Face it, Vladimir, right now your soul is in big trouble.

But there might be one way for you to save your sorry soul. Stop the warfare right now by declaring a unilateral cease fire and request that peaceful negotiations begin immediately. “The politburo would never sit still for any peaceful … .” You need but to remind them of how they benefited from the peaceful settlements back when all of your government’s publicly held resources were divvied up and parceled out for effective ownership and operation. It will be the same this time when Mother Russia regains some expatriates and the wealth that their operations represent.

Successful peaceful negotiation can be a win-win situation, Vlad. Mother Russia could win back some of what she believes is rightfully hers, and Vladimir Putin, her heroic, peace-loving premier, is perhaps able to save his sorry soul!

Ed Collins

West Newton