While I appreciate that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s talking points have gained some currency in the Valley, it still remains that the simplest, fastest way to end the harms in Ukraine is for Russia to cease and desist from its aggressions against Ukraine. Stopping Putin’s not-so-special operation is not something we, here, can achieve on the part of Russians.

We can and should give our moral support. We can listen, and, as needed, we can try back flips and upside-down somersaults in efforts to understand Russian perspectives. However, bringing an end to the attacks is something Russians have to accomplish themselves. It is in recognizing their responsibility that we best give them our respect.

Mary Hall

South Hadley