Adding fuel to Russia-Ukraine fire
Refer to the editorial ‘NATO at it again’; by pledging to Ukraine NATO membership and a minimum baseline funding of 40 billion euros in military aid within the next year, the Western Bloc has ensured that the war will not end anytime soon. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has rightly warned against a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia. NATO allies have announced they are transferring F-16 jets to Ukraine. US President Biden has reiterated that every inch of NATO territory will be defended. If all this is not provocation, then what is? The alliance must try to restore peace in the regions reeling from conflict and not use provocative rhetoric.
Bal Govind, Noida
Don’t let US dictate India’s policy
With reference to the news report ‘Can’t take ties for granted: US envoy after PM Narendra Modi’s Russia visit’; the threat of trade or military sanctions from the US-led Western bloc has failed to deter India from treading the path of strategic autonomy and choosing allies that serve its national interests. Gone are the days when the US could go on policing other nations and dictating what their foreign policies should be. India’s growing global influence can no longer be denied.
Anil Vinayak, Amritsar
Old man in guise of a ‘big boy’
US President Joe Biden mistakenly referred to his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as Russian President Vladimir Putin at a NATO conference. He also referred to Kamala Harris as ‘Vice-President Trump’ during the ‘big boy’ news conference. The twin gaffes come amid growing concerns about his ability to lead and take on Donald Trump in the November 5 elections. Just weeks ago, the 81-year-old had delivered a shaky performance during a debate with his Republican opponent. The series of flubs from the oldest US President in history — who is in the race for re-election — will certainly diminish the electoral prospects of his party.
DVG Sankara Rao, Vizianagaram
Restore normalcy on priority
Refer to the editorial ‘Shambhu barricades’; the Punjab and Haryana High Court order to clear the blockade has brought much-needed relief to commuters and local businesses. This ruling not only vindicates the farmers’ stance but also underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between civil liberties and public order. Both the Punjab and Haryana state governments must expedite the restoration of normalcy while ensuring that protests do not turn disruptive. This incident exemplifies that judicial intervention is crucial in safeguarding democratic rights and ensuring societal welfare. The episode holds a valuable lesson for both the government and the protesters — they must not take any step that causes inconvenience to the public.
Chanchal S Mann, Una
Govt must promote family values
Refer to the news report ‘In Assam, spl leave to meet parents’; the Assam Government has taken a laudable step. It is distressing how many grown-ups often neglect their parents, leaving them lonely and vulnerable in their twilight years. There is an urgent need to reverse this trend, and the state government’s move can go a long way in that regard. Other states must follow suit by announcing initiatives that will help promote family values and strengthen bonds.
Jagdish Chander, Jalandhar
Leaders must stay humble
Apropos of ‘What Modi can learn from Sunak’ (Trysts and Turns); the piece is a must-read. The writer has rightly brought home the point that a public figure receives more love and admiration when he stays humble, even after scaling the heights of fame and success. One does not need to shout about their achievements from the rooftop. Listening to your critics can actually help you learn and do better. Likewise, it is high time that the ruling regime understood the role of the Opposition in the lawmaking process.
Sadhna Saini, by mail
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