war – mackaycartoons

Thursday November 7, 2024

November 7, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday November 7, 2024

Great Expectations and the Greatest Comeback: A Golden Age or a Gilded Illusion?

November 9, 2016 (The morning after)

The morning after Donald Trump’s election to a second term has cast a stark light across the United States and the globe. Some see it as “The Greatest Comeback of All Time”—an extraordinary return to power reminiscent of political resurrections in history. Yet, for many, this resurgence is anything but triumphant. Half the nation, joined by allies and observers worldwide, is awakening to a wave of anxiety, bracing for a period they fear will be marked by retaliation, revenge, and deepening resentment.

Trump’s campaign promises were as sweeping as they were blunt, pledging to right perceived wrongs and remake American society in line with a vision that blends nostalgia, populism, and unbridled assertiveness. Central to this vision is the promise of a “Golden Age,” echoing Reagan-era optimism, polished with the now-familiar rallying cry: “Make America Great Again.” Yet, beneath these gilded promises, questions linger about who will reap the benefits of this promised era and at what cost to unity, both domestically and abroad.

In 2008, Barack Obama inspired hope with promises of change, a message so resonant it propelled him to the presidency amidst great expectations. However, the realities of governance tempered that vision; progress met resistance, and incremental wins fell short of transformative dreams for many. Today, Trump enters his second term buoyed by similar, albeit more fervent, expectations. His supporters believe he returns armed with sharper tools and lessons learned from a first term hampered by bureaucracy and resistance.

Analysis: Trump policies: Seven things he says he will do as president

August 3, 2023

The central promise this time is not just to continue the work of his prior administration but to expand it—rapidly and unapologetically. Trump, who once lamented that “the system is rigged,” now seems intent on navigating, if not overriding, that very system. His agenda includes sweeping immigration crackdowns, aggressive economic measures like massive tariffs, deregulation, and cultural interventions that target education and reproductive rights. Such ambitions signal a fast-moving administration, determined to mold the U.S. in a new, yet familiar, image.

However, for a significant portion of the population, this victory is seen not as a dawn of renewed greatness but as an omen of retributive governance. Trump’s rhetoric has long hinted at payback, particularly against political rivals and dissenting voices. The concern now is how this posture will translate into policy, and whether the U.S. will see not just a rollback of progressive measures but an intensified campaign to reshape institutions and norms with loyalty tests and ideological litmus exams. For those on the other side of the aisle, this raises fears of marginalization and the erosion of democratic safeguards.

October 26, 2024

Trump’s pledge to end the war in Ukraine on “day one” stands as a prime example of the blurred lines between bold promise and ominous risk. The implications are severe; an abrupt shift in U.S. policy that undercuts Ukraine could embolden Russia and destabilize Europe. What Trump touts as a commitment to peace may be seen by allies as a concession that sacrifices global security for expedient resolution. The shadow of geopolitical power games looms large, and the prospect of a win for Putin—a move that reshapes alliances and recalibrates NATO’s strategic calculus—adds a layer of unpredictability to what follows.

What remains to be seen is whether Trump’s second term can genuinely deliver a “Golden Age” or if the promise is a veneer masking deep divisions and selective gains. The reality of Trump’s platform underscores that this “greatness” is likely to be exclusionary. Proposals to gut reproductive rights, restrict educational content, and shift civil rights enforcement are poised to benefit certain demographics while alienating others. The stark contrast between vision and application—between promise and who actually profits—cannot be ignored.

Analysis: The Trump agenda: Here’s what to expect from his second term

March 11, 2016

Much like Obama’s experience with sky-high expectations tempered by legislative gridlock and compromise, Trump’s anticipated bulldozing of policy may meet roadblocks of its own. The judiciary, political opposition, and international backlash stand as potential checks on his sweeping agenda. Yet, this time, the fear is less about gridlock and more about overreach: policies that accelerate not just change but potential rupture.

As America stands at this crossroads, citizens and lawmakers alike will grapple with what it means to navigate great expectations in a deeply polarized landscape. If Trump’s promises materialize without spiralling into retaliation-fuelled governance, he might indeed build an era marked by notable economic and structural shifts. However, if his actions inflame divisions and fuel selective prosperity, history may remember this as a gilded illusion rather than a Golden Age—a period where “greatness” was pursued but at a cost that left the nation more fractured than before.

The stakes are high, not just for America but for the world. Whether this moment will be a story of reclaimed glory or a cautionary tale of towering expectations met with turbulent outcomes depends on how the Trump administration chooses to wield its renewed mandate—and whether America, in all its complexity, can navigate the path ahead with resilience and unity.

Saturday Night Live kicked off with Maya Rudolph’s always-fun impression of Kamala Harris. She pulled the old “mirror” bit with the real Kamala, who gamely played along. It was a funny, upbeat moment as the two Kamalas joked about the name Kamala, and it’s hard to imagine anyone but a humuorless sourpuss not cracking a smile. A rare light moment, and maybe one of the last we’ll see as the 2024 campaign winds down.

Of the two candidates, Harris clearly enjoyed herself more during the race. She danced, laughed, and ran on positivity—a sharp contrast to her aggrieved opponent, Donald Trump. Sure, surviving two assassination attempts would shake anyone’s spirits, but Kamala’s joy shone through, making her campaign infectious in the best way.

Now that power is on its way to changing hands, it’s the moment for editorial cartoonists to turn our pens toward the victors. At least, that’s how it’s supposed to work in this business, if we’re doing our job right. Trump’s win, of course, means another four years of potential material. And as a Canadian cartoonist, I’ll admit I have the freedom to look away and focus on homegrown issues—but I feel for my American friends in the field who won’t get that break from Trump’s daily drama.

One silver lining, though, is that this time, the people have spoken, and they were actually heard—loud and clear. After years of election skepticism and doubts cast on the process, this vote feels settled, with no lingering conspiracy theories muddying the waters. It’s a crucial reminder that democracy is alive, even when the results don’t please everyone.

And while it’s tempting to dump on any winner after a hotly contested election, this victory—however divisive—still reflects the people’s voice. I like to give incoming winners, even Trump a bit of a break from the ridicule with a view to an election being more a reflection of the will of the voters and less about the candidate. Some are calling it “The Greatest Comeback of All Time,” and while that’s debatable, it’s fair to say it’s one for the history books. Right now, Trump’s at the peak of his return, and for one day, at least, his critics can take a breather. There’s a lot going on closer to home to pick apart in the meantime. With Trump there’ll be plenty to pick apart soon enough.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Saturday October 12, 2024

October 12, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday October 12, 2024

Animated making-of clip here!

Gratitude, Complaints, and Context: A Reflection on Thanksgiving 2024

September 29, 2022

As we approach Thanksgiving 2024, a holiday traditionally celebrated with gratitude and the bounty of the harvest, Canadians find themselves caught in a peculiar tension between appreciation and dissatisfaction. The rising cost of living, particularly food prices, has led many to focus on economic struggles rather than the holiday’s central theme of thankfulness. While these concerns are valid, especially for those facing real financial strain, this shift toward complaints risks overshadowing the privilege many of us still enjoy in Canada.

In recent years, grocery prices have indeed risen, as pointed out in Toronto.com, where food inflation saw a 2.4% increase over the past year.

Thanksgiving dinner flyer deals: Here’s how much you might spend on turkey, potatoes, bread rolls, pies and more for the family feast

October 10, 2020

Many shoppers are feeling the squeeze, and it’s tempting to rail against the major supermarket chains—like Loblaws Inc.—that have posted record profits. However, some voices, like columnist Maynard van der Galien’s in The Ottawa Citizen, urge us to step back and reconsider our perspective. He highlights the fact that grocery stores remain well-stocked and clean, offering deals for the strategic shopper. For instance, he found 10 pounds of potatoes for just $1—an astonishingly low price even amidst inflation .

Van der Galien’s point is not that the cost of living hasn’t increased, but that many Canadians still have access to an abundance of food at reasonable prices, provided they take advantage of sales, loyalty programs, and other budgeting tactics. In his view, rather than complaining, Thanksgiving should remind us to appreciate the privileges we enjoy: the convenience of supermarkets, the availability of food from around the world, and the stability of our supply chains.

Opinion: It’s Thanksgiving weekend. Stop complaining about grocery prices

Pandemic Thanksgiving

This argument, however, must be weighed against the realities faced by many who find themselves in tougher economic circumstances. Food banks across the country are reporting record demand, and for some, no amount of flyer-scanning or coupon-clipping will make their Thanksgiving dinner affordable. Yet, as a reader of van der Galien’s column pointed out, it’s all about perspective: even with rising prices, a Thanksgiving meal can still be prepared for less than $50, which per person is cheaper than many fast-food meals. This echoes the long-standing economic principle that inflation is inevitable, not something unique to our current moment.

Yet, there’s a bigger context to consider. While many Canadians worry about grocery costs, others around the world are grappling with much more severe hardships. War-torn regions like Ukraine and the Middle East are facing food insecurity on a much more urgent level. Climate change-fuelled disasters, like the recent hurricanes Helene and Milton, are wreaking havoc on communities to the south of us. Here in Canada, we have been spared the worst of these crises. Our supermarkets are full, our infrastructure remains intact, and most of us are safe. This, too, should factor into our reflections during Thanksgiving.

Opinion: It’s Thanksgiving weekend. Stop complaining about grocery prices

October 10, 2015

Perhaps the growing tendency to complain about rising prices during Thanksgiving reflects a shift in societal expectations. We expect stability, affordability, and abundance, and when these are threatened—even slightly—it can feel unsettling. However, it’s important to remember that the holiday is not just about food, but about gratitude for what we do have, which remains significant when compared to global challenges.

This Thanksgiving, rather than focusing on what’s changed, maybe we can focus on what hasn’t. We are still fortunate to live in a country where clean, well-stocked grocery stores operate every day of the week, where we can find food deals with a bit of effort, and where safety and peace remain constants in our lives. It’s a time to recognize our relative stability in an unstable world. While it’s natural to feel the pinch of inflation, it might be equally natural to let gratitude take precedence over grievances—if only for one weekend.

As we sit down to our Thanksgiving meals this year, whether frugal or extravagant, let’s remind ourselves that being grateful doesn’t mean ignoring hardship—it means acknowledging both our challenges and our privileges. (AI)

* * * * *

Letter to the Editor, The Hamilton Spectator, October 17, 2024

Letter to the Editor

Feeling thankful for what we have

Re: Oct. 12 editorial cartoon

Graeme MacKay is spot on in terms of what countries around the world are thankful for, compared to the North American “first world problems.” I am not implying the majority of Canadians are self-absorbed in their perceived problems of high grocery prices, home costs, etc., but we are indeed lucky to be far removed from political strife that engulfs so many world nations.

So be sure to give some pause around the dinner table on Thanksgiving and think of those less fortunate and under threat of death. Even those in our own communities struggle during these festive holidays. I am very thankful for where I live and will not complain of our lifestyle or country where we live

Steve Warrick, Ancaster

Saturday September 28, 2024

September 28, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday September 28, 2024

Ukraine’s Fate Should Be Decided by Ukrainians, Not Trump’s Self-Serving Schemes

January 4, 2023

Donald Trump’s recent statements about Ukraine, including his repeated pledge to end the war “on day one” if elected, paint a dangerously simplistic picture of an incredibly complex and devastating conflict. His rhetoric is filled with vague promises like “I’ll work for a deal that’s good for both sides” and the notion that “Ukraine is gone”, suggesting that he already views the war-torn nation as a lost cause. But in reality, what Trump offers is not a path to peace but a deal on a silver platter for Vladimir Putin, all while ignoring the will and determination of the Ukrainian people. Ukraine’s future should not be decided by Trump or anyone else with a self-serving agenda. It should be determined by the Ukrainians themselves, who continue to fight for their sovereignty, independence, and freedom.

News: Harris decries Trump’s ‘proposals of surrender’ as Zelenskyy visits White House

February 13, 2024

Trump has repeatedly suggested that Ukraine should give up some of its land to Russia as part of a peace settlement. This is an outrageous proposition. It’s a move that would embolden not just Russia but any country with territorial ambitions, sending a message that military aggression pays off in the long run. Trump’s cavalier attitude toward Ukraine’s territorial integrity, which he frames as merely a bargaining chip, mirrors his broader “America First” ethos — one that sacrifices international norms and human dignity for expediency and personal gain.

Should Trump’s vision come to pass, the consequences would reverberate far beyond Ukraine. A brokered deal that allows Russia to carve up Ukraine could serve as a green light for other aggressive regimes to pursue territorial ambitions. China’s saber-rattling against Taiwan is an obvious concern. If Russia successfully annexes Ukrainian territory through force, what’s to stop China from making a similar attempt in Taiwan? And what about other former Soviet states like the Baltic countries? Once Putin succeeds in Ukraine, what’s to stop him from casting his gaze toward Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania, former Soviet territories now firmly within the NATO umbrella?

December 13, 2023

Trump’s laissez-faire approach to autocrats is not just morally bankrupt; it’s a strategic catastrophe in the making. It weakens the global norm against the forceful seizure of territory and undermines the international order that has helped prevent major conflicts since World War II.

News: U.S. House Speaker Demands That Ukraine Fire Ambassador

At the heart of this conflict is Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has become the symbol of his country’s resistance. He understands better than anyone the resolve of his people to defend their homeland. His non-stop crusade for military aid is not about prolonging suffering but about ensuring that Ukraine can survive as a free and independent nation. Zelenskyy’s tireless efforts to garner international support underscore the determination of Ukrainians to fight for their freedom. If they are willing to endure, to fight, and to sacrifice, why should anyone else, especially Donald Trump, decide that their fight is no longer worth continuing?

June 6, 2023

The fact that Trump believes he can bypass the will of the Ukrainian people by imposing a top-down peace agreement — one that likely involves Ukraine ceding its own territory — is a stark reminder of how out of touch he is with the reality on the ground. Zelenskyy, more than anyone, represents the people of Ukraine and is in the best position to gauge the country’s desire to keep fighting or negotiate. This is a war for self-determination — something Trump, in his own twisted sense of victimhood, has co-opted for his personal benefit in the U.S. while offering none of the same respect for the Ukrainians defending their homeland.

Trump’s rally cry of “Fight! Fight! Fight!” is about one thing: Donald Trump. Whether he’s invoking the term at political rallies, as in his dramatic “messianic” display in Milwaukee, or during his second impeachment trial after the Capitol insurrection, his use of “fight” is always about his own survival, his own ego, and his desire to galvanize his base. He has perfected the art of turning grievances and victimhood into political currency, using the idea of “fighting” to frame every setback as a personal attack on him.

November 11, 2022

The fact that Trump is even in a position to propose such a plan underscores the surreal political reality we are living in. How can someone who has been criminally indicted, impeached, and accused of undermining American democracy be trusted to decide the fate of another nation? It’s a deeply unsettling thought — one that speaks to the broader crisis of leadership in the U.S. and the erosion of political norms that have allowed Trump to remain a force in American politics despite his repeated failures and transgressions.

The fate of Ukraine should be decided by Ukrainians, not by Trump or any other outside power with a vested interest. Zelenskyy, through his relentless advocacy and leadership, embodies the spirit of the Ukrainian people’s fight for freedom. Trump’s harebrained ideas of handing land over to Russia in exchange for a false peace are not just morally repugnant but strategically disastrous. Ukrainians deserve the right to determine their own future, without interference from a man who has shown time and again that his only real cause is himself.

Tuesday August 13, 2024

August 13, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday August 13, 2024

An animated version of this cartoon may be viewed here.

The True Provocateur Behind the Bloodshed – Vladimir Putin’s Unlawful Conquests

As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensifies, the recent Ukrainian incursion into Russia’s Kursk region has garnered significant attention. This bold move by Ukrainian forces, pushing deep into Russian territory, has been labeled a “terrorist attack” and a “provocation” by Russian President Vladimir Putin. But such claims, coming from the architect of this brutal conflict, are not only disingenuous but deeply offensive.

February 24, 2023

Let us be clear: the root cause of this war and the needless deaths on both sides can be traced back to one person—Vladimir Putin. It is his unlawful territorial ambitions and flagrant disregard for international law that have plunged both Russia and Ukraine into this bloody conflict. The Ukrainian raid into Kursk, far from being an unprovoked act of aggression, is a natural and inevitable response to months of defending their homeland against an invader who seeks to erase their sovereignty.

The war in Ukraine, now stretching into its third year, was never a defensive operation for Russia. It was conceived in the Kremlin as a quick and decisive campaign to subjugate Ukraine and expand Russian influence. In February 2022, Russian forces crossed into Ukrainian territory in what Putin cynically dubbed a “special military operation.” The expectation was clear: Ukraine would fall swiftly, and Russia would cement its control over its neighbour.

News:Ukraine’s foray into Russia’s border region embarrasses Putin. How will it affect the course of war?

December 13, 2023

But Putin underestimated the resolve of the Ukrainian people and their determination to defend their country. Instead of a swift victory, Russia found itself bogged down in a protracted and bloody conflict. The Kremlin’s initial plans have unraveled, leading to heavy Russian casualties, economic sanctions, and growing international isolation. Yet, despite these setbacks, Putin has continued to pursue his expansionist goals, with devastating consequences.

When Putin accuses Ukraine of provocation, it is crucial to remember who the real provocateur is. The invasion of Ukraine was an unprovoked act of aggression—a clear violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and a breach of international law. The relentless bombing of Ukrainian cities, the targeting of civilian infrastructure, and the displacement of millions of Ukrainians are all on Putin’s hands. This war has not only devastated Ukraine but has also led to the deaths of thousands of Russian soldiers, many of whom were conscripts sent to fight in a conflict they likely did not understand or support.

Ukraine’s recent incursion into Russian territory is not a provocation; it is a defensive measure taken by a nation fighting for its survival. After enduring relentless attacks on its own soil, Ukraine has shown that it can and will strike back. This raid is a message to Russia that Ukraine will not be cowed or conquered. It is a demonstration of resilience and a declaration that Ukraine will not surrender its sovereignty.

February 13, 2024

As the war drags on, there is a growing weariness in the West about the ongoing support for Ukraine. Voices like Senator J.D. Vance and former President Donald Trump have suggested cutting military aid to Ukraine and seeking a “peaceful solution” that would hand over significant portions of Ukrainian territory to Russia. This approach is not only shortsighted but dangerously naive.

Such a “solution” would not bring lasting peace; it would embolden Putin to push his expansionist agenda even further. History has shown that appeasement only invites further aggression. If Putin is allowed to carve up Ukraine, there is little doubt that his ambitions will extend beyond Ukraine’s borders, potentially threatening the stability of Eastern Europe and the broader region.

Those in the West who advocate for scaling back support for Ukraine must understand that this war is not just about Ukraine; it is about defending the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. If Putin is allowed to succeed in Ukraine, it will set a dangerous precedent that could have far-reaching consequences for global security.

Opinion: Ukraine’s incursion shows Russia’s war is not going to plan

November 11, 2022

The hypocrisy in Putin’s rhetoric is staggering. For years, he has been the one provoking Ukraine, destabilizing the region, and disregarding the lives of both Ukrainians and Russians alike. Yet, when Ukraine responds, he cries foul, attempting to cast Russia as the victim. This narrative is not only false but also insulting to those who have suffered and died because of his ambitions.

The truth is that every death in this conflict—whether Ukrainian or Russian—is the result of Putin’s choices. His unlawful invasion has led to a catastrophic loss of life and has plunged Europe into its most severe conflict since World War II. The suffering on both sides is a direct consequence of his imperial dreams, and no amount of propaganda can obscure that fact.

As the war continues, it is vital to hold Vladimir Putin accountable for the devastation he has wrought. The international community must recognize that the provocation, the bloodshed, and the suffering all stem from one man’s unlawful pursuit of territorial conquest. Putin’s actions have not only threatened Ukraine’s existence but have also endangered global peace and security.

For those in the West who are growing weary of supporting Ukraine, let this be a reminder: the cost of abandoning Ukraine is far greater than the price of standing with them. A “peaceful solution” that rewards Putin’s aggression would not end the conflict—it would simply pave the way for more bloodshed. The world must stand with Ukraine, not only in its fight for sovereignty but in its fight for justice. For it is only by confronting and condemning the true provocateur—Vladimir Putin—that we can hope to bring an end to this senseless war. (AI)

Thursday January 4, 2023

January 4, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday January 4, 2023

The West’s Commitment to Ukraine Must Not Waver

December 13, 2023

The West’s commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression and its growing fatigue towards this commitment is a grave mistake. It is crucial to recognize the strength that lies within the West and the importance of upholding our values, interests, and partnerships. The West must reverse course, abandon weakness, and stand firmly with Ukraine in its quest for victory.

Warmongering dictators pose a significant threat to their citizens and neighbouring states. However, it is the weak leaders who appease them that enable their aggression. Compromise and concessions are seen as weakness by these dictators, emboldening them further. Bad behaviour must be punished, not rewarded. Just as rewarding wrongdoing reinforces misconduct, rewarding bad faith actors in international politics only encourages further aggression.

The West’s response to Russian aggression in the past has been marked by weakness and appeasement. For example, after Russia invaded Georgia in 2008, instead of imposing devastating consequences, Russia was appeased. Concessions were made, and Russia faced limited sanctions, which only emboldened Putin to pursue a more aggressive foreign policy. The West’s feebleness was further highlighted when Russia invaded Ukraine, annexing Crimea and invading Donbas, right after hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. The limited scope and scale of sanctions imposed on Russia and the rewards given to Putin, such as Nord Stream 1 and hosting the World Cup in 2018, only reinforced his belief that he could act with impunity.

News: Ukraine war: with stalemate on the battlefield Nato needs unity and commitment more than ever

February 24, 2023

The consequences of the West’s weakness extend beyond Europe. In the Middle East, the West’s inaction in Syria allowed Russia to intervene and support the Assad regime and Iranian terror proxies. This resulted in the loss of countless lives and the transformation of Syria into a narco-state. Furthermore, the West’s hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan, despite years of sacrifice and investment, showcased weakness once again and led to Putin’s second invasion of Ukraine. Failing to extinguish the fire in Europe risks setting the rest of the world ablaze.

President Joe Biden’s recent shift in supporting Ukraine’s bid for total victory to focusing on negotiations and territorial concessions is concerning. The West must not falter in its commitment to Ukraine’s goal of expelling Russia from its territory. The war in Ukraine represents a conflict of great power magnitude on the European continent, and its resolution will have significant implications globally. The West must provide Ukraine with the necessary support to strengthen its defensive position and deter further Russian offensives.

The West must recognize its strength and abandon acts of weakness that have only served to embolden dictators like Putin. Upholding our values, interests, and partnerships is crucial. The West’s commitment to Ukraine must remain unwavering, and we must stand firmly with Ukraine in its quest for victory. Failure to do so risks not only the freedom and prosperity of Ukraine but also the stability and security of the entire world. (AI)

Some moderated backnforth – occasional gleanings from social media – because why let time spent engaging and writing stuff go to waste?

From Instagram

Critic1: If Trump were still in office Ukraine wouldn’t have been invaded.

MacKay: Sure, and Putin would’ve returned Crimea under Trump. But didn’t. The Trumpsters are oblivious. Reagan is rolling in his grave.

Critic1: Putin doesn’t want Trump because Trump is likely to respond to any threats to the U.S. or our allies. He’s unpredictable. He won’t tell the enemy what his plans are unlike some traitors from his cabinet.

Graeme MacKay: …well, there’s that hokey narrative, that Putin fears Trump. In actuality, Trump is a pushover. Trump showed he cared not about Syria, nor Crimea, and he essentially cleared the way for Putin to make his move on Ukraine, which will become Putinland if Trump is elected.

*** * * * ***

Critic2: As someone who is from that area of the globe and pays a lot of attention to what happens there, you are either grossly lacking in information on the matter, or this is just shallow politics for the faithful, which, if that’s the case, my apologies for disturbing the preaching.

MacKay: Being practically scared to death as a kid in 1970s-80s all thanks to the fear of Cold War nuclear annihilation gives a certain awareness even to those of who aren’t from the USSR/East bloc. Decades of Putin’s criminality has been enabled by aloof western leaders, for sure, but the Russian people are ultimately to blame for their own aloofness over the years by allowing this monster to thrive. Putin’s tactic to cause misery on Ukraine as a means to divert attention from the criminal ways he’s enriched himself since 2000 demonstrates how he’s put his own people under a spell. If senseless meat grinder of hundreds of thousands of 18-25 year old “soldiers” won’t send Russians into the streets in outrage then one wonders about their complicity. Biden and Trump? They’re a sideshow.

Critic2: as someone who is friends with a person who smuggled Boris Nemtsov’s documents out of Russia after his assassination and is friends/works with Navalny etc, they (and I) would disagree with you that our presidents are a sideshow. Putin seems to take certain things into consideration before acting, two of which seem to be who is US president and the price of oil. In addition, without giving away too much, presidents have a lot of sway over funding of organizations that oppose Putin’s regime; when Biden became president, he cut funding to the ones I’m familiar with. He’s reversed that since, after the conflict started, but at the beginning his administration wouldn’t even communicate with them. Also, I understand the fear, i lived next to a soviet nuclear bunker as a kid, it was accross the street from my elementary school. At the school, we did nuclear attack drills and lessons about things like Pershing missiles. It was a different time.

MacKay: I’m not sure what we’re disagreeing on. That Trump would be better dealing with Putin? It would end the killing but it would strengthen his dictatorship.

Critic2: hmm, well, thank you for conveying to me that you are not interested in engaging with different perspectives.

MacKay: well, from your viewpoint who’s better for the world in terms of dealing with Putin, Trump or Biden? I ask because I’m dealing with Putin apologists on other threads. They tend to leave comments in tandem under critical cartoons.