Considering the Possibility of a New World War
Daniel Oliver, writing for American Greatness, recently discussed the potential for conflict between Russia and Ukraine to escalate into a global conflict. Oliver critically examines the arguments made by John O'Sullivan in a National Review article advocating for aid to Ukraine. Oliver finds O'Sullivan's arguments unconvincing, citing several problems that need to be addressed before the election.
Uncertainty Over Future Leadership
The outcome of the upcoming election could significantly impact the situation. If Donald Trump wins, the course of action is somewhat predictable. However, if Kamala Harris wins, it's uncertain what will happen. Harris may continue to navigate the situation as the current president has done for the past two years, caught between her anti-Semitic supporters and traditional Jewish Democrat supporters who inexplicably continue to vote Democrat.
Comparing Putin to Hitler
O'Sullivan's primary argument is a comparison between Putin and Hitler. He argues that, just as no one believed Hitler would sweep across Europe before World War II, people may be underestimating Putin's potential to do the same. However, Oliver questions this comparison.
Russian Military Spending
O'Sullivan also highlights the significant amount of Russian spending on its military, estimated to be between 6.5 and 14 percent of GDP. Despite this, Oliver notes that O'Sullivan concedes that Putin's military seems to be second-rate at best.
Europe's Role in the Conflict
Oliver questions why Europe isn't doing more to prepare for potential conflict if Putin's intentions are as clear as O'Sullivan suggests. He notes that the GDP of the U.S. and Europe were about equal in 2008, but today, the U.S. GDP is 75 percent larger. This discrepancy is partly due to European laws restricting U.S. companies from doing business in Europe.
Europe's Economic and Military Weakness
Europe claims it doesn't have the economic strength to fight Putin alone and therefore needs U.S. assistance. However, Oliver points out that Europe's economy is in shambles and European countries lack functioning armies. He suggests that Europe could improve its economy and military capabilities by embracing free market principles.
U.S. Aid to Ukraine
The Biden administration and other supporters of U.S. aid to Ukraine argue that spending large amounts of money on military hardware for Ukraine would benefit America by paying American workers. However, Oliver counters that this money would come from taxes on productive workers or loans to be paid off by future generations.
The Role of Oil
One way the U.S. could contribute to the situation is by increasing oil production, which would lower the global price of energy and decrease Russia's revenue. This move would also create financial hardship for Iran.
China's Growing Threat
Oliver argues that the U.S. needs to focus on the growing threat from China, which he considers a far more serious threat than Russia. He believes that O'Sullivan underestimates the threat China poses and the benefits to Europe of containing China.
Bottom Line
Oliver concludes that the U.S. can't do everything and that it's time for Europe to recognize and act on this reality. What are your thoughts on this matter? Do you agree with Oliver's analysis? Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.
