An article by my Hoover colleague Dr. Paul Gregory in The Hill
The U.S. media initially burst out in applause at the “sweeping” and “tough” sanctions the Biden administration imposed on Russia on April 15 under the title of “Imposing Costs for Harmful Foreign Activities by the Russian Government.” Targeted are activities that “undermine security in countries and regions important to United States national security; and violate well-established principles of international law, including respect for the territorial integrity of states” (meaning Ukraine).
The Biden justifications for the sanctions are the presumed Russian interference in the 2020 elections, Russia’s hacking and cyberwarfare, the disinformation activities of the Russian military, and other hostile acts not enumerated.
One additional sanction justification has been dropped, embarrassingly, at the last minute. The U.S. intelligence community can no longer assert with sufficient certainty that Russian forces offered rewards to Taliban fighters for killing U.S. soldiers. The sanctions document declares: “Given the sensitivity of this matter, which involves the safety and well-being of our forces, it is being handled through diplomatic, military and intelligence channels.” In other words, “Never mind” — although these supposed Russian rewards played a substantial role in the 2020 election campaign.
The Biden sanctions also prohibit U.S. financial markets from dealing with primary issues of Russian sovereign debt. This action will raise the cost of public finance to the Russian state.
Discussion (3)
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Victor, I follow your appearances on Tucker’s Show on FOX. On the subject of black families, you are spot on that men need to learn they must take personal responsibility for themselves, their behavior and to take care of their children and their children’s mom. On racism, the black community needs to know that they are no longer slaves, no longer in bondage, so why are they still living like slaves? Being a victim shows more weakness than it does strength. Living free is a personal decision. It’s an attitude of the heart that affects the whole body. So where are the religious leaders, the Churches, the Christians to speak loud & boldly against racism? Racism is evil and it cannot prevail in a free society.
I would like to hear VDH put into historical context the position of the United States of America . Will it be the next to decline as have the Greeks, romans, Ottomans, Spanish French and English and Soviets?
Hi Dr Hanson, a huge fan of yours, and interested in studying classics on my own term/pace. Could you please recommend a list of books that are must reads? Much appreciated, Sir. Thank you. Best, Farshid