When one country (Russia) invades another country (Ukraine) in attempts to take back Crimea and "help ethnic Russians", the whole world sits up and pays attention. Especially when the citizens of Crimea are given ten days to decide whether they want to become a part of Russia or not. Most citizens around the world are simply just following the news. The United States is a bit of a different story. America is viewed as the lone World Superpower. So what does that mean, exactly? What power does the US have to do something about this? On a more philosophical level, how much power should the U.S. have?
U.S. President Barack Obama and US Secretary of State John Kerry have come out strong, saying that there will be consequences for Russia's actions and that Russia will come out on the wrong side of history. Russia President Vladimir Putin has ignored these warnings. In fact, it seems as though each day he takes a stronger opposing action. So, is the U.S. actually being effective at all?
In addition to strongly worded speeches, Obama has taken some action. First, he's imposed visa bans on Russian government officials in the US. Second, he's imposed economic sanctions against individuals involved in the crisis, including freezing assets and preventing trade. He also approved a $1 billion financial aid packet to help the Ukranian government.
Still, the fact remains that a part of Ukraine could absolutely become a part of Russia in less than two weeks, and the U.S. may not be able to really do anything to stop that. So the question still remains: should this be within America's power? Should America really be the world's watchdog?
In addition to strongly worded speeches, Obama has taken some action. First, he's imposed visa bans on Russian government officials in the US. Second, he's imposed economic sanctions against individuals involved in the crisis, including freezing assets and preventing trade. He also approved a $1 billion financial aid packet to help the Ukranian government.
Still, the fact remains that a part of Ukraine could absolutely become a part of Russia in less than two weeks, and the U.S. may not be able to really do anything to stop that. So the question still remains: should this be within America's power? Should America really be the world's watchdog?
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