The 2018 Russia War Games Spark Questions and Controversy

Putin visits Tsugol training range and presents top soldiers with awards. (Handout)

By Jacob T., 6th Grade, Krieger Schechter Day School of Chizuk Amuno Congregation

For almost 70 years, Russia and the United States have shared a tense and acute relationship. According to History.com, during the Cold War, which began in 1949, both countries showcased their atomic bombs. According to CNN, on July 16, 2018, President Donald Trump met with the Russian President Vladimir Putin to work on strengthening their relationship. However, two months after their meeting, Russia announced that it would be staging its largest war games: a show of power through an exhibit of military equipment, troops, and advanced military systems. These war games would be the first since the fall of the Soviet Union. Questions about Russia’s motivation behind the war games still remain.

Hasia Cohen, former Israel Defense Forces soldier and middle school Hebrew teacher at Krieger Schechter Day School says, “There is so much tension between Russia and the western world. I think [Russia] wants to show its power.” She explains that “maybe it’s a way for [the Russians] to scare the west.”

Steven Gordon, published author and middle school Social Studies teacher at KSDS, adds, “They want to expand their territory and their philosophy; they use the military to see that that happens.” Regarding an appropriate United States response, Gordon explains, “With a nation that is a bully, you have to be vigilant, and you need to maintain a strong military as a deterrent. What stops [Russia] are other forces, whether its economic sanctions or military force.”

Many were shocked when President Donald Trump met with President Vladimir Putin, and many have accused Trump of being soft on Russia. However, some believe the Trump administration has been harsher on Russia than some former U.S. presidents. According to the UNIAN, a Ukranian news agency, John Brennan, former director of the CIA, is quoted as saying, “President Obama would use other instruments of U.S power, such as sanctions.” In other words, the Obama administration’s response to Russia invading Ukraine was to threaten to take action. According to The Washington Post, under the Trump administration, the State Department’s response was to arm Ukraine with sniper systems and ammunition. While it is true that President Trump denies Russia’s meddling in the 2016 election, his administration’s actions are generally more aggressive than that of Obama’s.

While Russia’s intentions may remain obscure, many have some strong beliefs about their actual motives. “It’s about power, control, getting rich, owning resources and making sure your philosophy is the philosophy. If they see that you are a pushover, they’re going to run over you,” Gordon concludes.

 

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