[uejfiweun]

Look, I get that Russia is not exactly kind to its neighbors, I have some Polish relatives who tell me all about that. But I'm just not really sure that the US has any business being in Russia's "near abroad" anymore. The US isn't 50% of the world GDP anymore, and is politically paralyzed - I don't think we have the appetite nor the finances for another gigantic war.

Now this is controversial, so don't take this the wrong way, but I'd feel a lot better about the US defending Europe if Europe would also shoulder some of the burden. I honestly don't see why the US needs to spend so much on this project, while other NATO members are unable to even meet the 2% spending commitment. As a regular American it just kind of seems like Europe is riding on our backs with this. As much as I love Europe, Europeans, and European culture, I can't get behind spending tax dollars on defending countries that don't care enough to spend money to defend themselves.

[snyena]

I actually agree with that. I think Europe should strive to meet its 2% spending commitment. There have been talks about a joint European army as well. I am no expert in these matters but I am of the impression that Europe should be more committed to defending itself.

[vanusa]

But I'm just not really sure that the US has any business being in Russia's "near abroad" anymore.

Does Russia have any business being in their "near abroad" any more? Given their "not kind" history conducting themselves in these countries?

Would you like to give us your own synopsis of this "not kind" history in Ukraine, specifically?

[JaggerJo]

I’m German and think we spend too little on our own military - to the point where it’s a joke.

Europe needs to grow up and get able to defend itself.

[zqna]

And also maybe stop sponsoring and doing business with oppressed regimes too (yes China too)? I'm baffled that Nord Oost pipe project is at the latest stages right now, and W.Europe is considering putting the energy shackles without any extra thought. In a similar vain I'm puzzled that Netherlands are just doing business with Russia like normal after what happened with MA17. I perfectly understand that sitting cozy in their homes is what only matters to the most of people, but it's just sad that we are slaves of our own comfort and refuse to see a bigger picture.