A tip for us older people: "Keep trying; don't give up, unless...!"

 The most important lesson my health aide teaches me--whatever you did that was easy for you to do, and you find it almost impossible to do now, keep trying, you'll likely find a way (unless you simply can't)!

My health aide was on vacation this holiday season.  With her gone, I could have let things I found difficult to do pile up to become the evaluation, I can't do it!  To prevent that evaluation of my sequence of performances, I simply kept trying and trying and trying--using ingenuity to accomplish the task!

It's important to believe in yourself even when it's so easy to lean on another person to do it for you!  

By the way, it's very, very useful to have a health aide at your side at least sometime during each day.  I use the phone to augment my sessions with her!  (In my opinion, they're indispensable for a full life.  It should become clearer as more people live longer, I hope.)   

HAPPY NEW YEAR, 2023!

Major problem for international politics: No leader is held responsible for his actions by an international body!

The leader does what he wants as long as he secures support from his country to remain in power.  That leads to permitting him to whatever he wants--engage in hostilities, produce citizen flight from the country, make his subjects into virtual slaves, make treatises with international criminals and rogue countries.  

International organizations can have no say over him.  The only real threat to his exercise of will is possibly the will of his citizens or his military.   

And so, the world over suffers from his heinous acts that go unchecked or overridden, because he doesn't need to think what havoc he creates, given his continued base of support within his country.

So it seems.

Phone is out of service. Verizon notified.

 Phone is out-of-service.  Verizon notified, 12/26/22.

Thanks, as always!!  

Sierra Leone has mired in educational poverty, claims those in the know!

 "Its schools, few of which have electricity, are among the world's worst." Economist, December 10, 2022, p. 44.  

But now, the government is trying various approaches to change things--in the quality of offerings and ease of accessibility--spending over 20% of its budget on schooling: abolishing tuition, etc. free or nearly making it overall much less; improving the content of the classes; and hopefully, raising significantly the test scores of students attending, etc.

Indeed, the Sierra Leone educational system, such as it is, is fostering different approaches to innovation that should bear results in improved student performance!

My impression: the state educational system is trying hard, much harder--for the sake of the students' careers!          

Democracies should help establish democracies world-over!

I've been apprised on several occasions that the Commonwealth of Nations, the English group of  democracies who are linked together in trade and related issues, could be of assistance to countries that might consider going from autocracy to democracy.  The former Prime Minister Mr. Johnson headed that organization.

Is it possible that this group could be of assistance in President Biden's drive to establish more democracies in this period when there are fewer?  In particular, has the Biden Administration touched base with this organization or with Mr. Johnson?

Just a thought, since it's been mentioned to me several times as possibly a useful avenue!

US is making a terrible mistake in not having diplomatic contacts in Eritrea, Africa

My information, just received yesterday, is that the US doesn't have an embassy in Eritrea.

It is my understanding that the government there is supporting the President of Ethiopia's attempts in the Horn of Africa.  Russia is there due largely to the China military base.  To my mind, the area is hot with gunshot.  My sources may be overplaying it as Egypt is trying to control the Red Sea.  Sorry, for any informational gaps, but that's a long way away!

I recommend that any movement toward democracy in Africa must be coordinated with helping the African Union in their efforts along with the United Nations to stabilize an area strongly engaged in trying to cope with the Continent's poverty, fueled by Muslim extremists, jihadists, aimed at establishing caliphates.  This is a tall order to come to their aide after a century of the Continent's neglect. 

Placing the Africa Union in G-7 seems wise. 

My thoughts on the major problems there amassed over years in El Paso.

My opinion (P.S.  My health aide is from Sierra Leone!  Have had her for a year and a half.)

 

Unskilled in technology, people in many nations are standing in line for education!

They need jobs and they need to learn how to use the computers--including the hand-held kind! 

President Biden is holding an African Summit right now where he's explaining how the entire continent of Africa can be educated in today's tech world, so they can participate in modern living and send their goods around the world to be sold.  

It would seem to me that before investors the world over would be interested in helping a nation to educate its people in the ways of Advanced Nations, they would have to know that anything they would help build--a school or university; an industrial building or office complex--wouldn't be destroyed by war or civic unrest.  Primarily, they would need assurance a group like the jihadists would not target their edifices, in which they have put their own capital money to educate and train the people to work in the ways of modern society.

At the US southern borders, Latin Americans are knocking on US doors to get into the United States.  They want to learn how they can get jobs and live in today's tech world!

Because so many Latinos can travel to our southern border, they are anxiously hoping they can live here at least temporarily while they learn contemporary skills in technology and get hired by modern businesses.   A lot are looking for work and a place to live, too.  Once they settle in, they are anticipating going to school to upgrade their skills and to send their children to school, also, so their kids can qualify for good jobs--indeed, everybody in their family to become trained, skilled workers!

         

PBS interview of Ms. Mingrida Simonyte, Prime Minister of Lithuania on Ukrainian End-Of-War

Today on the PBS Newshour, 12/7/22, the Prime Minister of Lithuania presented a plan to end the war.

First off, she recommended that what inhibits Russia to the extent it is under some constraint in its aggression on Ukraine is reluctance to act in such a way as to rile NATO. Visible NATO strength straight ahead! 

The second point she raised is that the European nations ought not to wait around for Russia to offer some hiatus to the conflict--which is exactly how Russia is coaxing them to act--but move ahead with Ukraine in the forefront to force its own solution upon the conflict.

I have in the past been awed by her rational, purposive discussion of the War--aimed at ending in Russian defeat at the expense of denying Putin's dream for a Russian Empire in its current primordial design.

I commend her thoughts for the West's serious consideration. 

My opinion.     

Locking out Russia as major supplier of oil and gas to EU, Biden looks to Maduro for Venezuelan oil.

Chevron to extract the Venezuelan oil and export it to the US, providing that the outrageous President Maduro starts talking to his opposition, hopeful leading to Maduro's departure as President (long overdue).

Well, that may be the only way he goes--he's had control of the military that keeps him in office.

My opinion.

Wake up, women! Your right of privacy is being denied, the world over!

Indonesia is the latest to pass a slew of laws aimed at denying your right of privacy.

But then there's Iran and even the United States through its Supreme Court challenging that you have a right to your own privacy.'

Some critics of the laws being codified to make sure you don't claim this right contend no government official or religious cleric could really enforce society's refusal to permit women to claim this right.  But in any case, women would have a difficult time to fight for a right that the laws of state denies them, i.e., tells women they don't have.

What a legal mess is being perpetuated on women by their governments, today.    

Ukraine may be developing its own long-range weaponry arsenal

General Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Defense, US, claims that the US isn't supplying weaponry with long-range capability, so if Ukraine is privy to such an arsenal, it's likely of their own making.

After all, Ukraine is merely defending its own territory, some of which Russia has already tried to make its declared land through seizure.       

Economist confirms what think-tanks have said: Russia is using gold as its mineral for investment and trade as if its own "money"

 See Economist, December 3rd issue, pp. 64-65.  It is the "money" in financial transactions that may be inadequately recorded.

And thus, there may be no reliable knowledge of what Russia is paying for whatever it has in gold, taken from its own mines, the world over and bartered!  That is to say, the sanctions of the West pertaining to Russia's payments from its gold reserve may be ineffectual: Data regarding the value of Russia's gold may not be dependable.

For example, Putin's friend is helping mine precious minerals of the Central African Republic by using Russian mercenaries, no doubt providing Russia with a storehouse of minerals to take home!  (See Economist, December 3 2022 issue, p. 10.)  

Ukraine boldly strikes within Russia today!

The Ukrainians have suffered and watched their land crumble with the bombing of the Russians.

Suddenly, they have woken up to the idea of hitting at the installations in Russia where the bombs and drones are housed that inflicts such devastation; and they are striking back.

They have to--for Ukrainian self-preservation and self-protection.  It's obvious, the Russians won't leave Ukrainian space, if not chased out in battle. 

My opinion

Just a thought!

What if strong winds would blow leaflets--like in the Second World War, bombers dropped leaflets over enemy territory--telling the truth of how Ukraine was invaded by Russia.  And the papers blew into former Soviet territory!  Couple months of that, and President Putin might feel ashamed of what havoc the world has permitted him to do on Ukrainian land.

Just a thought.

 

Great Britain is a natural for solar energy farms!

Economist reports (November 26th, 2022 issue) one farm off of Yorkshire, can power over 1 million homes on a really windy day.

Huge success in England, it would seem. 

Be it mindful: Autocracy is in position to destroy innovation and new ideas!

That means civilization is being set back because of persons who are wanting to stay in power!

Democracy better enables the human spirit to explore and show the way forward!

Next, society's review of each innovative idea.

My opinion.

EU not liking it, but migrants making it there; France to England migrant going ok.

Point is, the migrants seem to be making it into Europe.  (See November 19, 2022 

the Economist).  

Which is also reporting that there's plenty of lithium in Argentina, cobalt and nickel in Indonesia.  Looks like the US semiconducter industry will be fully operational soon. 

My research.

On CPAN Wash. Journal: Editor-in-Chief Aaron Mehta reports US military program still is in effect!

I've been supportive of the program that has put our military in countries around the world.  I contend it is the a major force for peace.  Congrads esp. to the Pentagon.

On CSAN Washington Journal: Today's guest--Aaron Mehta, Breaking Defense, Editor-in-Chief confirmed the program is doing its job well!

My opinion.

 

Russia should continue to be a great power--in helping nations become democratic!

 Through its great network across the globe, Russia should pursue the dream of President Gorbachev to lead countries that have recently turned to the autocratic form of government to turn to democracy.

Admittedly, there are problems with democracy and Russia could help solving them as it assists in bringing countries trying and struggling with autocracy.  The core problem with autocracy is thinking there is someone who has all the answers to governing smoothly and in allowing full contribution of the people, including critics and nere-do-wells.  Democracy aims at inclusion of all citizens including those who protest!

You say, "why bother?"  Because it's written in the genes!  I know this sounds absurd, but I contend the ultimate paradigm is the basic organic structure where there is conflict but control that wraps all functioning units into an organic whole.  It's the fundamental contradiction of the living and striving of human life.  The idea is to keep climbing up the progressive ladder of human powers, expressed in each person, such that God renders the final contradiction of human existence: "My thoughts are not your thoughts and my ways are not your ways!" The American philosopher John Dewey convinced me of his major thesis. 

And we're making progress toward resolving that inherent contradiction in human life.  There much less war among people; it is possible that peoples, no matter what their background, can live together harmoniously.  The late Queen of England pronounced  a tranquil 35 years of peace across the globe, just before she died, as but the symbol of God's peace.  It will continue.  The point is to move to the next stage of human control of his world: democratic governments.  (An old notion, that will continue to persist to assume right living, until we as humans make it to the next stage of development of the species!)

That's my impression.  Not suggesting anything; just observing the direction of our improvement as a species.  Next stage: toward universal peace among peoples; and acceptance of the other.  

 

    

Wild Conjectures #1:

*In philosophy, I already have shown there are apriori truths such as the causal sequence, the big bang creation of the physical world.  I've forgotten, there may be others I knew of years ago.  These fundamental truths enable us to order our experiences.

*There's a spiritual world: the human being is composed of body (physical), mind (mental), and consciousness (spiritual or internal self).

*Fish are acquainted with the sonar world; and particularly, salmon with that which brings them back where they were born to lay their eggs for the new generation.

*I think the spiritual world, if we survive as spirits, is thrown in with the physical world, which science is telling us, seems endless....We already know through astronomy that some physical objects in space go faster than the speed of light at times.

*The conservatives would have us believe there's no more to existence than what we already know exists.  I submit this is pure hubris.  I encounter this in philosophy where conservatives don't admit to apriori truths, e.g., David Hume of England.

*I still don't understand Einstein's General Theory of Relativity!    

--I will from time to time call up other "Wild Conjecture" items collated through numbers.

     

It seems there's two Indias: The prosperous south and the poverty, polluted north by New Delhi.

President Modi presides over two life styles dictated by income and regional opportunity" north India and south India; farming vs/ industrial.  Pollution and stagnant population growth pervades the north.       

Interestingly, President Xi in China has tended to bring the farmers of China into the cities' realm..  

Both are no doubt trying to maintain a quality of life beyond the poorest in the world for their people.  The issue is drawn around the number of people each region has: for there far more poor, young in the northern plain.  

Remedy: mitigate pollution in the north; and move south, the young people where they can have a chance!

My endorsement.  (See Economist discussion in October 29 issue pp. 33ff.)     

It's possible to recycle old car battery stuff.

By constructing "gigagactories," reports the Economist, Octobert 29th issue, p. 18.

Their ingredients can be reused to make new batteries!  Saves in time within the supply chain of having batteries ready for car installation.

Also, solar panels are being developed to put out in space, I hear tell.  Twenty-four hour manufacture of greenery energy ready to be captured.

  

Muslim Religion has to keep up with the times: keeping to its old ways ok in Middle Ages not ok now.

Jihadism and caliphates--the world has moved beyond these.  But so has the role of women in modern culture.  Religion is not culture; and culture is not religion.

Before Khamenei there was the struggle within the Muslim world for the place of women--yes, in Iran, too.  And, the cultural battle continues.  It ought not to be costing human lives through battle.

My opinion.

Older-generation folks contribute to society's stabilization, I argue, at a cheap cost to government!

 The Economist has a good section that takes up the plight of old people in society, today:  pretty good, I'd say compared to the past of pain and bed therapy!  The point in "natural wisdom" is to bolster the parents' claim about the good old days (ha!) and the bright future for the young uns(yum!) ((see pp4 ff of the Special Report, October 8th issue, 2022)).

The youth with their dreams of themselves 30 years hence; the old thankful the new and innovative has transformed the past; and the parents giving orders to both under their control--to the extent they are controllable by the current generation!  A blend of age groups making up society, altogether.

Meantime, the government can take out long-term loans at desirable rates of interest.  After all, the old have finally learned to hoard their money for that rainy day, in which they don't cost much anyway, confined to the neighborhood they've grown to love and understand.  Anyway, they know they can't borrow much, not even to pay for their funerals!

Meantime, the old are teaching the young to "calm down" with their enthusiasm and training their kids to become satisfied with their lot in life: saying, "It's not all that bad as ought-97.  That was awful!  You kids don't got it that bad, Matilda!"

And that pattern of social, human existence could last for million upon million of years.  If someone lasted that long he/she might be very bored at the conclusion of the first million years.  Aw, sweet boredom!

 

 

  

Hey, come see me! Travelling is booming!!!

Adventure: promised via the movie world and realized by going wherever they want you to come!

The lure of places to do things, just for the experience.  Hawaii calling.  No war there.  Places in war and conflict, don't know what they're missing by offering excitement and joy to peoples from elsewhere.  The pride of their lands and culture they hide under a basket, hoping the bombs won't fall upon their historic landmarks.  These countries live in hostile isolation, knit-picking with their neighbors, don't realize the glory there is in shining up their relics and their cities and landmarks to say, "Hey look at us.  We're some really big deal!"

Vegas has it just about right: the hotels don't charge the regular rate through their discount plans designed to lure tourists to have a good time there.  And, they advertise, while you're having that good time in Vegas that no news will leak back home--"What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!"

So, Qatar anyone?  Now, that's real class, IF YOU'RE UP TO IT.   There's plenty to keep the kids occupied---experiences that they can't readily forget; and they'll want to tell others about, including YOU--the  parents. 

Au revoir.  (There, I said it correct!)

For Kamala Harris

 I'm John Oastler.  

You should be hearing from PM of GB office on a project involving the Commonwealth of Nations I'm involved in.

You'll get a list of countries to contact : The foreign minister in these countries or the President.

Good luck.  Keep the list of joining with the Pentagon, General Mark Milley, Joint Chiefs of Staff and former Joint Chiefs General Joseph Dunford.

 

Prime Minister Sunak may have noticed the problems in instituting democracy worldwide.

 I know people who have a direct line to the Prime Minister's office London.  It has become a pressing problem that corruption in government not be a hindrance to starting democracy.  It simply is to be glossed over.  I attended an Olli Class at American University.  The two teachers were Bill and Rita Hadden from Hong Kong.  They realize the reason why corruption must be glossed over.  I would use them as a reference.

What we need is to get as many countries as Biden thinks can become democratic now and start working with them to establish democracy.  Talk is cheap; action requires patience and perseverance to work with them and do it!  Sunak's office should help to identify nations of the English Commonwealth of Nations organization of theirs that can provide technical assistance.

The idea is to work through governments, not through NGOs or well-meaning groups non-governmental.

Let me know how things are going, but work with Sunak's office directly!--and here in US, Biden's office directly. I understand the Vice President will be the conduit.

   

 

I thought the Communist Congress just charged President Xi with bringing Taiwan under mainland control.

After listening to various reports of the Chinese Communist Congress assemblage, I gathered an impression that there was consensus in its halls to welcome Taiwan into the Beijing fold.  

I know there was some disturbance about the ways of President Xi in handling certain things--the pandemic and repayment schedules of African nations in arrears to China--leading to this challenge that he carry forth his project to wrap the Taiwan Peninsula up into the waiting arms of "mother" mainland, thus to demonstrate to Congress and indeed to the world, his mettle in the world of diplomacy with military as backstop.

Yet, I also heard mention that China would not be up to speed of assuming the role as major power for yet another 6 or 7 years!

Somewhere, I didn't get it straight!

  

So, just let the Ukrainian War linger on till the Spring with citizenry left to carry on the fight--whomever is left on their own soil!

What else is there to do?  Giving in to President Putin's aggressive stance would mean becoming subservient to the Russians or...leaving.  

Meantime, there's President Biden's continued pressure through sanctions on the Russian economy backed up by the G7.

And winter's coming...Merry Christmas.

My thoughts as time passes into 2023.

What a tribute to democracy Biden's effective leadership is providing!

Now if his administration could inspire and lead fledgling administrations the world over to taste and see that democracy is for them!  

Contrary to autocrats, democracy does not replace them.  Once a President is no longer the current President, he enters the challenging phase of becoming statesman and adviser to his country's administration--still playing a vital role in the political affairs of his country.  In the United States, the former Presidents form an ad hoc exclusive club, to my mind!

The point is, a President's knowledge and wherewithal is not set aside but used mightily to the advantage of the country's wealth and well-being of its citizenry.  And yes, occasionally, coming back as President, e.g., see Lulu in Brazil.

    

Turkey's President Erdogan discerns his crossroad position between East and West

 HE envisions a stance taken by Turkey in the Middle Ages and is preparing his people to share his rekindled role in a "New Turkey," despite all the reverberations in Turkish economy that has sent prices soaring.  (see pp. 75 ff of November 5th issue)

Amazing doggedness, he is showing Turkey's especial role in international affairs.  I hope he is not giving up in the Muslims of the Middle East--Syria and Palestine, where his vision of Turkey's place could take root, I believe.  Look at poor Lebanon needing guidance and inspiration sorely that Turkey could render through trade!

My opinion.

  

China isn't that much a partner to Russia but is to Germany!

 The Economist points out that Russia is really being isolated from Europe trade.  If it continues, Russia will be unable to get into a supply chain capable of the riches it's experiencing so far.  (the November 5th issue, p. 64ff)

Europe is displaying far greater calm in all that has befallen them this year.  A tribute to their self-confidence and ingenuity.

My opinion. 

Why I need to stay in DC!

 I came to DC some 5 years ago, among other reasons, to work on the 500+ years plus futures project of importance to the world but especially to give guidance to the US over that period of time long after I'm gone, of course.

The project is doing well, because of the support being offered me.  It takes a lot of support--there's plenty of countries involved and particularly, the United Nations, which I sometimes go up to New York to visit.

The thing of it is Diga is a tremendous help and everything is doing good at Shalom House, where I'd like to stay for as long as I can.  I'm very productive--I appreciate your continued support!!

Just a note to say how things are going.  I'm not that public about anything I'm working on, of course.  Can't be.

  

Biden's support of the semi-conductor industry in US is not a "to be made in America only" business rule

Globalization says share industries world-wide, not exclude others from a lucrative enterprise.

Taiwan is the leader in semi-conductor production but because there must be several places in the world offering the same products (that's what the theory of globalization means in part) and President Biden is obviously concerned that something might happen in shipping needed parts that would cut-back on the supply of semi-conductor parts, he rightly plans to bring that industry here on our shores, but I don't believe that cuts off buying these necessary parts to supply the AI field from elsewhere, in addition to supplying them from plants in the US.  Preposterous supposition, to be sure.

But that seems to be how President Xi of China interprets Biden's intention to create a thriving semi-conductor industry here in the US.  I don't believe he implies anything about the semi-conductor manufacture of these parts anywhere else in the world!

    

McCain Institute of Arizona State University outlines terms of peace for Ukraine to pursue

The interests of Ukraine must be pursued to the very end of fighting in that region of the world.  Ms. Evelyn Farkas of the Arizona State University McCain Institute has presented the Ukrainian terms for settlement I believe will spell peace there for years to come.  You can't let Russia think it is in position to dictate a viable peace settlement: it would only sanctify their aggression with hubris and send them on a mission to whittle away the freedom of the entire continent of Europe, which is ultimately the naked ambition of a communist Russian Empire.  Please, we need to establish peace and tranquility in lands that have been threatened with invasion and control by a hostile power: Putin's Russia and the GRU with its gulag retraining camps already being constructed in the homeland.

President Zelensky, carry forth to preserve the cause of independent nations, nevermore to be haunted by the threat of subservience to a ruthless Russia.  And may you be accompanied with the symbols of justice and a lasting peace to remind the citizenry of Europe and Asia that your cause is righteous and eternal.  

Brookings: Terminator on the Battlefield: Emerging and Evolving Tech in the Russia-Ukrainian War

 This discussion was held online November 1, 2022, 10AM, Michael O'Hanlon, Introduction; Amy J. Nelson, Brookings, Moderator with panelists: Samuel Bendett, Center for Naval Analyses; Prof. Jaclyn Kerr, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology Initiative; Gavin Wilde, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; Tom Stefanick, Talbott Center for Security, Strategy and Technology; and Margarita Konaev, Center for Security and Emerging Technology, Georgetown University.

Points made during the discussion:

1.  Heavy use of robotics--drones and remote control timed explosive devices, both long and short range traverses.

2.  Reliance on AI programs to coral and amass huge amounts of data for plotting troop locations on the ground.  Useful to the analyst in making responsive troop movements quickly.

3.  Experimental use of voice and sight recognition of personnel.  Not to be dependent upon at this stage of development.

4.  Heavy use of propaganda over the mass media by Russia and Ukrainian military.  Sometimes, effective, but many times ineffectual in swaying opinions and making decisions.

5.  So, for data collection, AI software of value and spotting troop locations, movements for use by trained military in moving troops around on the ground war.     

All in all, not much automated so far in the ground war.

Globalization is by no means passe.

Large companies I've talked to are spec-ing more sites than one to produce entities that go into the final products; and they do include their company headquarter country.   The point is there are economies of scale and factors of geographical location of particular parts, not to mention the security concerns that make more than one location of manufacture desirable.

A big company wants multi-sites producing parts and the end product for a variety of reasons; so it's more advantageous to so plan with many sites in mind!

     

Thanking for the many, many good suggestions!

And, I'm made use of them, too!

Great staff available to me.

Cordially, JLO

OLLI speaks! Justice Clarence Thomas is posing a revolution in American jurisprudence!

At the Current Events class of senior-age students in the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute,  American University, DC, today 10/11/22, 1:45 PM, it was "talked about" that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas may have gotten the Supreme Court embroiled in a law dispute pitting the American citizenry contrary to the viewpoint of the Court.

For while the citizenry of the United States may be in favor of the preservation of privacy rights of the individual, e.g., such as that which is invoked to protect the privacy of the woman between her and her doctor over her decision regarding an abortion, Justice Thomas claims there is no such protection granted in law.

Is Justice Thomas seeking to revolutionize US jurisprudence such that there are no privacy rights at all, even sought through case precedence?

Surly, such a pronouncement is tantamount to the January 6 mob intention to circumvent the proceedings of recording the legal election for President of the country held in the year 2021 during proceedings in the halls of Congress on that fateful day!

But then, I didn't poll the students of the class to determine if someone had a law degree!

Alas, my opinion!     

Wilson talk: Geopolitical Importance of Southeast Asia and the Pacific

This important discussion on how the US should approach working with the several countries for a mutual defense posture and international trade, investment and financial benefits of those participants in commercial supply chains that serve the US and the Pacific region were featured topics in the online presentation held on October 7, 2022 9AM.  Be it recognized that the US has endorsed the plans for the evolving Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity and is currently engaged in identifying countries in Southeast Asia that might want to become members.

Congressmen Donald Norcross, New Jersey and Rob Wittman, Virginia served aa resource for the discussion and panelists were Professor Mark Kennedy, University of Colorado; and Ms. Slichoko Goto, Director for Geoeconomics at Wilson.  

I take it that this new organization deals in trade and commerce and also making investments and running international business corporations and their governments.  I think its objectives are to make friends with the business community in this far-reaching area for both reasons of corporate security and financial gain-- while promoting sound business practices implied by the phrase "rule of law" and ridding corrupt business practices in business dealings.

I was personally impressed, so frequently was mentioned that governments now in close relationship with the United States wished to maintain their close ties outside activities of the proposed Framework.  That includes Japan, S. Korea, Vietnam; and Australia.  But clearly, this organization could share technologies, be involved in the training of perspective personnel, become a conduit for relaying practices and useful ideas--in addition to foster increased trade among participants; and foster a sense of comradery and brotherhood among those belonging, due to their common interests and sincere dedication to right fairness and justice.

The Congressmen emphasized that our military commitments as part of our sharing a desire for our presence in the Southeast would be likely centralized on the island of Guam, already housing US military regional installations.  Admittedly, the US has military presence the world over already, but there might be some weaponry more suited to the geographical situation there!   

      

      

'What Better Looks Like' (Biden's vision) Breaking the Critical Minerals' Curse: Wilson Center Discourse

On 10/4/22 11 AM, the Wilson Center featured a discussion on mineral mining including in regard to  quality assurance and security.   Leading the discussion were Ms. Lauren Herger Risi, Director of Environmental Change and Security Program and Ms. Kimberly Thompson, USAID.  Moderator of the panel discussion was Ms. Sharon Burke, President, Ecospherics and panelists--Ms. Aimee Boulanger, Director, Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance; Ms. Helaina Matya, Director, Office of Energy, US Dept. of State; Amayebe Dia, Mines to Market; and Christopher Smith, Chief Gov. Affairs Office, Ford Co.

Minerals such as lithium, cobalt, niobium and titanium; also, gold.  Issue is in identifying a sample's type  mineral and its amount.  And then noting the supply chain for which it is designated; all the while assuring that the sample is in safe and secure possession and handling.  To be sure, those parties interested in the mining process must be responsible financial agents to engage in the mining operations and distribution.

That is to say, these parties must be willing to work with the resource country, since there can be no mineral supply without its consent.  And part of attaining the consent is knowledge that the money gained from the process will be apportioned to the mining community and its related goods and services, Mr. Dia pointed out.  

Kimberly argued that the present status of auditing the items processed can yet be much improved!  The object is to lessen the opportunities of corruption in mining.  And in that President Biden has urged the use of sanctions--possibly, even in the mining industry, there would need to be close heed paid as to who is prohibited to obtain the stones for their use, e.g., those sanctioned countries and individuals that are not allowed to be procurers of these stones.  Russia is involved in gold mining but is under US sanction, for example.    

And, new processes are in the offing: Argentina is developing cathode processing techniques, one such.

The overarching concern of the participants (appeared to me) is the dominant role China already plays in this field at the moment, despite the US current interest in lithium mining and processing.  Does the US want to catch up? 

When to do it Other's way than My Way!

Frank Sinatra, the kroner of pop songs, wanted to do it in his way, when he sang "I did it my way!"--heralding an achievement he was after.

I was talking with the Rector of Epiphany Episcopal Church here in DC this afternoon about when it is important and to our advantage to have it some other person's way than "my way!"  It's obvious: when my way doesn't net what I'm trying to accomplish; and by using the someone else's way, I'm a winner!

We hear the talk about how we, as a society, are so divided.  Well, to my mind, that's because we do pretty good when we do what is natural to us, without thinking of how others are handling their problems by their successful patterns of habit and conduct.  But sometimes you do well to pay attention to how others get things done; so to copy it (oh, yes, with a few minor adjustments to suit).

People complain about an open borders policy of a country, such as the United States at El Paso.  That's because they think they're doing pretty well in their own patterns of behavior to get what they want.  But progress usually comes about by knowing the methods others are using and adapting them to handle your own situations to improve your performance and/or achieve what you couldn't do up to now. 

In other words, be open to new concepts and ways to do things!  And, keep those new ideas coming!  Some of them might just work for you in your situation. 

Similarly in religion.  We practice our faith as we are accustomed.  We come united together to achieve a greater social, moral good--the better society for humanity.  Thus, drugs are useful to calm us; but we must always know what we're doing:  taking an overdose is injurious to our health.  We must be trained on how to administer and use wisely, so as to maintain personal control of ourselves.      

Complaints are starting to be acquired, here in DC--even with my having a health aide!

With my volunteering work, I've always have had people who don't like my presence!  And, sometimes, they've been effective to the point of making me move, etc.

It's just occurring in DC--after some 4 years plus here.  (I recall conversations when I was virtually assured it wouldn't happen here, but alas it does and has!)

My health aide needs to inform me when it happens.  She's not been apprised of this wrinkle.

I'm moving ahead!  Receiving complaints are sort of barometers of making inroads--maybe.  

Have others been apprised?

 

Russian Oil Tycoon reinforces my estimation--After Putin, a much more probable acceptance of the rule of law principle---hallmark of the West democracies.

Over the years since my visit to Moscow, I've been talking with Russians; and I've been impressed that the Russian people are more likely to try democracy, despite a stock market whose stock prices go up and they go down! 

Hearing the talk of this Russian oil tycoon on the Fareed Zakaria Show today only reinforces my thoughts on the topic.

My opinion.

Imperative! Stop President Putin or the world could become his victim!

There is irrefutable evidence that Central Asian countries with rail service across to Europe and as far East as to Pakistan are being fast developed into the world's breadbasket.

This goes far beyond the terrors the communists are striking across the world in the rejuvenation of fascism and the promoting autocracies-dictators in Brazil, etc. to push for control of manufacture and distribution of goods and services through world trade routes.  I'm sure China is doing all it can to raise money for this monumental global project, even as more countries contemplate establishing oligarchs and similar autocracies. 

My opinion, after studying the world data!  

On TV: They're able tp grow salmon fish on sea farms!

It looks like the salmon grown on fish farms are like regular salmon caught by fishermen.

If so, it would mean a vast amount of nutritious salmon available for mankind.  

George H. Mead: "We see ourselves as others see us!" Health aides take heed! Be happy!

There's nothing worse than having a prophet of gloom as your health aide!  Get happy, health aides--you've preserved your patient to live another day; and the patient should be busy, too (not just couched in a sheet and pillow)!

That's what my health aide has taught not only me, her patient, but everybody living at my senior residence.  Thank you, Diga!

And thank the United States Government who is helping me on this project of making life precious and still meaningful for the old people who get busy and make their life precious, for just another day of living!  

Lesson for the new day: Enjoy life (with pain killers, if need be)!

Russia, yes; but China, too!

I'll be glad to work with the Kennan Institute in near future.

I'm also active in China!  Going well, there.   I live just outside of Gallery Place.

P. S. Mike O'Hanlon of Brookings has a line to the Pentagon, whom I've worked with. 

Putin is said to have committed war crimes. These charges have historic proportions; and the US government should pursue.

I hope the humanitarian groups have all the data they need.  I recommend the process that should be followed be similar to how the Allies handled the trials in Kosovo.  I am thankful to have been involved in that situation! 

The world is in change, indeed.

My opinion.

Willing and will try to handle more!

I was speaking with the Maryknoll sisters yesterday and indicated I could help them.  That one is pretty important.

Will consider other new projects, too.  We can probably add  personnel!

Here goes!

   

I don't want to lose my health aide; and she's good potential, outstanding!

 Esther Ford of  Miriam's Kitchen is a trouble-maker!  Help!

My health aide just called.  I hope it means I got her back--permanently.

I go to Kennedy Center each week!

I attend the Millennium Stage 6 PM on Saturdays.

Since the pandemic, and the new changes, the programs have been "God-awful!"

I get out and around ok, but I don't go out late nights (for me).  Anyway, I'd like to have the programs improved like they used to be before the Virus!  What they did was turn the programs over to ethnic groups to perform.  

If anything can be done.   

Church is fine on Sundays. 

Saudis are making the adjustment to save Europe in time of need!

The Saudis are turning green.  Thank you.  Plans are underway now.  But there's a green future for Saudi Arabia.

The world is responding well to what would otherwise be a disaster to the planet.

My opinion.

Brookings--Fireside Chat: "Power Politics--Trump and the assault on American Democracy"

Moderator from USA Today Ms. Susan Page interviewed Mr. Darrell M. West, VP of Brookings on his most recent book regarding the Trump phenomenon in American politics.  Autocracy frequently features a populist leader that enamors himself with the people.  It's a cult worship of the leader, who in the eyes of the citizenry is virtually St. Peter at the pearly gates of heaven welcoming in the true believers!

Once it is found out that this "St. Peter" is only a man, heading a government, possibly representing a rich cartel of business leaders, the people don't know what to do.  Should they continue to follow him or look yet for another?  Is this St. Peter not the guide to the heavenly kingdom on earth?

Mr. West assured us in his presentation that he is both a conservative from his rural roots and a progressive by his joining the university crowd of scholars and analysts.  Therefore, he has the wisdom to recognize a con artist from a politician interested in improving the lot of the average citizen.  And what that average citizen is in quest of during his time on earth is personal economic opportunity to develop his God-given talents for himself and his family.  

But the populist is out to maintain a system he has created that benefits himself, above all, and his coterie of devotees.  Accordingly, Mr. Trump falls into the category of populist leaders as rule in Hungary, Turkey, Brazil, and the Philippines--brutally, egotistic and swaggering!

Ms. Page asked the question of Dr. West, how can we make sure to know an egotistical populist, when he runs for office to take money from the regular people to benefit his coterie of licensed bandits of the public till?  Page recommends: make sure there's a very large number of citizens that vote; insist corporations pay their fair share in taxes; expect from your democratic government the opportunity of freedom to all to climb the economic ladder to the top through one's own effort and ingenuity; and seek to establish innovative voting practices such as rank choice voting as in Alaska whose voters want to find the best qualified leaders for themselves.

For in America democracy works through institutions within it to make good its promise for fairness and equality of all persons.  It is that which makes the passing on of the baton of governmental leadership to the next President every four years or so, an easy thing for the former President to do (in a democracy).

My take on Mr. West's interesting conversation with Ms. Page..

           

    

Where Nation-building went wrong in Afghanistan.

I have argued that Dick Cheney's US military version of nation-building was a success in Iraq and could have been more successful in Afghanistan. 

Events in Iraq over time have shown that wholesale re-modeling the governmental and to an extent the society works with a significant emendation: namely, an accepted leader that has support of the people.

Thus, with al-Sadr, an individual I believe that could be a vital unifier of the diverse groups, Iraq should be well on its way to becoming a new nation, far different from that under Hussein.

In Afghanistan, however, the cities of the country have more of an opportunity to join modern society as compared to the hinterlands, still mired in the traditional Muslim faith that embraces Shira law and interferes with modern governance of society by creating religious states, viz., the caliphates.

But the government in Kabul had barely control of its own environs less more that of the manifold cities of the entire country.  That meant the Taliban could infiltrate the urban communities--linger on--and dominate the rural populace, too.  There was strong reluctance at home for the US to become involved in the Afghan countryside, especially where the growing of plants was used in the making of drugs--I am led to believe.  So, to my mind, it would have taken much longer to become a transformed new nation-state.  Yet, largely through the use of US contractors, the population was slowly becoming Westernized nonetheless.  (Thanks to Blackwell.)

 

Former President Gorbachev could accept capitalism,; but the Russian people would not!

I was in Russia in 1989.  I thought President Gorbachev, the last President of the Soviet Union, tried to offer the Russian people an honest appraisal of democracy and its institutions for consideration to be adopted in Russia.  He pointed out that the Russian constitution has some features present in the US constitution, for example.

But in my discussions with Russians on the streets and in stores, restaurants in Moscow, I found that when they confirmed with me that capitalism has several monetary disasters in its history, e.g., the stock market crash of 1929, in which citizens might encounter their own personal, financial calamity--some financiers, suddenly becoming insolvent, reportedly jumped off buildings in acts of suicide--they wanted to learn nothing more about the system!  They told me, they preferred communism.

Since 1929, in the West there have been many changes to mitigate the harsh effects in the cyclic ups and downs of the stock market in the world, put in place largely through governmental programs, e.g., in the US, the social security administration for the retired; and the unemployment insurance program for those who have lost their jobs.  

Gorbachev was President of the old, USSR, but under the newly constructed national government (to replace it), the Russian Federation emerged.  And the matter of peace between East and West (without a Wall) has lasted for some 35 years--until President Putin invaded Ukraine, and NATO became a reminder of the two separate philosophies within Europe!  

       

al-Sadr should be persuaded to stay involved in Iraqi politics!

I am a big supporter of the cleric al-Sadr in Iraq, well-trained for politics during his years in Iran.

He can unite that nation and attend to the affairs that will benefit the poor and the needy from the coffers of the very rich Iraqis!  The need for equity among the citizenry is obvious; and I'm still counting on the religious groups to work out their own country's salvation--under al-Sadr.  He ought to see the future of Iraq is within his grasp; he's acting immature.

My opinion.

 

Warfare has entered a wholly different dimension! My opinion.

 I think what is happening is that no longer can you be sure who's on your side.  The enemy is now anywhere, even in outer space.

The way to handle it, I suggest, is to make increased use of the Navy Seals and the Marines to supply the logistics to those wherever they are on our side--including EU and The West and US.  It's not just hacking on the computer, but the use of drugs, etc. to gain compliance.  

It is vital not to leave these compatriots elsewhere, dotted all over creation alone on their own.  This is group, cells stuff.

It's gotten sophisticated; and the West will meet the challenge through rigorous identification of the supporters of freedom and independence.  It's also the stuff of sabotage.

My suggestion.

     

It could be that Darya Dugina, daughter of Putin's top masterminds was killed by sabotage!

I just wonder.  When I was in Moscow during the collapse of the Russian Empire, USSR, I heard stories that sabotage was happening all over the country!

Why do I think so about this sad ending of a daughter's life?  When I was in Moscow, the things Russians on the street were complaining about was their goods made-in-Russia didn't filter into American stores.  They aren't making it to here now, some 30 years later.  The Russians want to be liked for what they do, they produce, not for whom they must war against.  

Personally, when I visited Russia years ago, I was astounded how these people were kept isolated, away from Western Civilization, where I believe, they could be appreciated for who they are--in helping make the same things that are sold to Westerners.

I don't think they like their isolation, that Putin must think is for their own good!  But they certainly manufacture usable products.  It's a way those of other cultures come know of theirs. While I was there on vacation I bought a pair of shoes made there--in Russia; and proudly wore them out on the streets of San Francisco!     

My health aide says she can't live on what she's getting in wages; and I can't pay her!

My health aide may leave me!  She's extraordinary; and I would miss her terribly.  We're a good team!

She just won an award from her company in recognition of her work.  She deserves it.

Her remarkable approach is to motivate me to do all the things that a person in good condition should be able to do.  But when or if I don't perform adequately, she's there to help.  And, the effect her approach has on me is to keep me exercising and capable to do my work in addition to my puttering!

Outstanding motivator.  If she has to go, I'll miss her--as I say--but I may develop ennui.  Ugh.

Anything that can be done to keep this team together?    

Georgia, a favorite place to move to for Russian emigres!

There's so much that could be done to upgrade the infrastructure in the country of Georgia.  They speak Russian there; and that's probably why it is attracting so many who wish to live somewhere else, maybe-anywhere else--than in Russia under Putin!

Be that as it may, the country lies on the sea and could become a veritable playland of the region, I contend.  I hope the number of emigrants from Russia keeps on growing until the present government in the Kremlin in removed, and I'm also hoping that's pretty soon!  The country can easily make room for more people!

My opinion.  

It's been a privilege being associated with the government these many years!

I just took one of those psychological tests we who are volunteers to do service to our country have to periodically take.

I guess what struck me as I was administered it by a nurse is that I never was downbeat as a result of my doing service.  I have thought all along I am doing that which should benefit the country!  So, I've always been upbeat.

But that does not mean I haven't experienced at times a living hell along the way.  It happens; and I've been lucky to come out the other side of such an experience still upbeat, thinking I'm making a contribution.

I know in fact I've tried real hard! 

 

A Significant Change in the Ukrainian War?

That the grain is going through the Baltic Sea represents a significant step toward dissolving Russian aggression into Ukraine.

I've suggested that President Zelensky pursue with the two break-away provinces in Eastern Ukraine what conditions they would accept that would enable them to stay part of Ukraine yet maintain each's own cultural distinctiveness.

That is to say, what may have prompted President Putin to think Russia should takeover the country of Ukraine is simply its proximity to it.  The state of war should be convincing him of his mistake in judgment--and that causes, meanwhile, Russia and Ukraine to bear in costs to the people and the land in the region.

Perhaps, he and the Russian oligarchy are undertaking a re-evaluation of Russia's aggressive moves against Ukraine, Russia's neighbor.  

My opinion.

For the sake of peace, it is good that Israel talks issues with the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)

Governments, and people in position to promote world peace, must talk with all those who have the power to resolve issues that are preventing peace.

There must be a cease-fire or a stoppage of hostility to enable the resolve of problems and tensions between combatants, specifically in this case--Israel and the PIJ. 

Israel, you have come a long way to realize this!  A sign of international maturity.

My opinion.

The Nation is standing by our fearless leader in the US Congress, Nancy Pelosi as she praises Taiwan.

 Despite the fact that so few countries have recognized Taiwan as an independent state, Taiwan has shown itself to be truly independent' and free.

Nevertheless, the Biden Administration and Congress-lady Nancy Pelosi have shown the United States to back the Taiwanese to be independent, not controlled by mainline China.

It took to this administration in the United States to forthrightly act on Taiwan's behalf to insist on Taiwan's right to remain a free country!   

I recommend state elections be administered by an independent commission.

There are several countries that establish an independent commission to oversee the electoral process--some board that assures no person that is involved with an election could possibly be subject to threat or receive a gratuity or reward due to the win of one candidate or another.

But due to the avalanche of threats and accusations hurled at those who administer the elections in the US, I believe we ought to change the system run by an independent commission--not given to party preference.     

Wilson Center: A Conversation with President Irfaan Ali of Guyana

Guyana, one of the fastest growing countries in the world, economically, and member of Caricom, the Caribbean Common Market, is along-time friend of the United States.  Its current President Ali gave an upbeat vision of the country's future, given its recently developing oil reserves and its dynamic approach to making Guyana technologically advanced and ever-absorbing in new knowledge and techniques.  

It may be, too, that this country can help out in the need for oil and gas in the EU and elsewhere as Russia is being phased out as supplier to the West.  President Ali that emphasized his commitment to retain the forests of his country even as Brazil, its southern neighbor, has greatly diminished its reserves for farm production.  He is looking to a program of oil and gas low-carbon development.

Mr. Mark Green, President of the Wilson Center introduced him and subsequent to President Ali's remarks, Amb. Thomas A. Shannon Jr. of Arnold and Porter made comments on the presentation.

By what President Ali brought out in his talk, Guyana is interested in outside-the-country investors, e.g., from the United States and in international up-to-date business and technological advances applicable to keeping his country in the forefront of making not only his people skilled in the latest and in demand, but those in other Caricom countries, too.  

Clearly, this leader is listening to what new knowledge is being developed worldwide and has established  centers in his country for distributing and training how the world turns!    

   

Brookings Fireside Chat, etc.: "Ensuring Electoral Integrity at the State Level"

The discussion was held online on July 26, 2022 10AM.  There was a fireside chat between Ms. Katie Hobbs, Arizona state government, the Secretary of State and Ms. Elaine Kamarck of Brookings.  It was followed by a panel discussion of the topic by Ms. Kamarck; Edgardo Cortes, Brennan Center for Justice; and Professor Gabriel Sanchez, University of New Mexico.

I was so struck by the revelation of Ms. Hobbs of the threats of violence to her person, as the result of claims of election fraud brought by the Trump Campaign for the 2020 election and others, that I am refraining any comment on the discussion, given the fact that those involved in the election process have been inadvertently placed in harms way, so to speak.

My major comment is that each election board of the state governments across the country should be chosen outside of the political system.  In many countries the matter of election is left to an independent board appointed--however it can be assured that no political party has been involved.  Given the current  allegations made against the system as it has traditionally been conducted in the United States, I don't believe any persons involved in it can rest at night assured for their own protection and safety, given that "the big Lie" is still out and will be circulating in future elections, no matter what. 

That is, the system involving political parties and governmental workers must be replaced, in my opinion by a board, with no party, in particular, affiliation.   Importantly, no member of an election commission should hold state office.  There are plenty of such boards in countries that use an independent system of electing. 

Given the problems with the current system in the USA. evidently--the Secretary of State in Arizona has been subject to harassing calls and threats to her person and that of her family.  Another system to utilize the election process must be utilized, in my opinion.

             

US people! Get rid of this Trump mentality that wants to close our borders!

Today, I've been listening to the America First dogma of the "We're so great mentality!", probably, Trump supporters.

Don't forget that the scientific break throughs of the 20th and 21st Century were because we brought to this country, TO OUR SHORES; NAY, WE WELCOMED FOREIGNERS!  Don't be deluded by the "we know it all crowd."

Einstein wasn't from this country.  I could go on and on how we have welcomed other people the world over!  Our greatness isn't because we are acting like the Russians, like the Chinese persuaded by Communist nonsense, but because of our willingness to accept others--other points of view; other gestalts-- and learn from them--AND THEN DO AS we AND THEY SAY, NOT AS PRIDEFUL BOASTFUL DO NOTHINGS LIKE TRUMP who tell a good fib!

I hope that President Biden doesn't take this country down the path of isolationism or THAT OF self-gloating bigots!

Open those borders and be surprised, amazed.  Semiconductors will be replaced by the next generation of  sparkling ideas!  Don't be lulled into complacency that we're the know-it-alls.  WE WORK WITH THOSE FROM ANYWHERE THAT COME TO WORK WITH US FOR THE SAKE OF THE PLANET AND NEW KNOWLEDGE!

Let the doors to this country be opened--bearing the sign to all: WELCOME.  WE'RE WILLING TO LEARN FROM YOU;WE'RE WILLING TO WORK WITH YOU!              

Brookings Discussion: "Assessing UN State Building of South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond"

 The moderator for the topic was Ms. Vanda Felbab-Brown of Brookings; and the discussion was online July  25, 2022 10 to 11:30 AM.  Panelist participants were Ms. Heather Coyne, Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen, United Nations; Adams Day, United Nations University; Richard Gowan, UN Director, International Crisis Group; and Ms. Rachel Kleinfeld, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. 

At the risk of giving the opinion consensus on the topic, as far as I could tell, it was contained in the comment of Mr. Day: (to the effect that) the analysts who have looked at the outcomes when nation-building has been tried at least by the UN is a dismal failure overall.  Oh yes, there's been some success: the distribution of humanitarian aid; a cease-fire, perhaps; but nothing that could be said to be a really change for the better for the country wherein it was tried.  He suggested that perhaps the goal should be less all encompassing: try to achieve some regional change in business practice or diminished resumption of military conflict.

Nevertheless there has been a lasting cease-fire in Ethiopia; and if Eritrea is not involved in the near civil war that waged bitterly across its border, the effort to bring about peace has worked.

Be that as it may, I am somewhat familiar with the former Vice President's system of nation-building used, I think successfully in Iraq and in Afghanistan but with less success as the Taliban have taken over the country.  Indeed, I am aware how the Russians took over Afghanistan, then left it to the Americans, when to try our luck!

But I became convinced that Cheney was onto something big in nation-building, US style.  In Iraq, I woul say the concept was quite successful.  The model used was to get the warring factions together after Hussein was out of the way, and set out to form a new government composed of both Shi'a and Sunnis, primarily. Not only this, but the US got the economy back running through contract to an oil producing giant.  A divided government--true--but with major factions represented.  The cleric al-Sadr has been instrumental in bringing Iran in to quiet things next door!  I think there may be still United States troops there--in no hurry to depart.  

In Afghanistan, the project of nation-building was down to only 2,500 American troops on Afghan soil.  But many Americans were objecting to the drug traffic that was growing the poppy seeds in Afghan fields; and the Afghans themselves were unenthused by the regime in Kabul that seemed to them no better than the Taliban who ruled or controlled the countryside beyond Kabul and some prominent cities where US had some control.

The point is there was no need for our President to have made a deal whereby the United States troops would pull out entirely leaving the country on its own; and the Taliban right there.  The Afghan people were looking to us; and we were showing them Western ways.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

Nation-building takes time and troops; and the United States acted precipitously in running away--like in South Korea at the Seoul Airport--or don't our memories go back that far!

As the participants in this assessment pointed out, nation-building is an arduous undertaking that perhaps takes several years, even thirty years to work; and even so, an efficient government with strong citizen backing to make it work.           

    

GB has had it rough; but a lot good will be made of Brexit!

There are many English who wonder what is going on?  The pandemic, inflation, Russian threat to foodstuffs and gas and oil, and the attacks on democracy as a form of government--all bombarding the English Isles at once!  Meantime, GB exports abroad--suffering; and there's the Northern Irish question with only stopgap remedies.

Well, Great Britain is standing together with the US as two bastions for the democratic form of government.  GB's coming out from the EU, standing on its own and at the same time, showing the world a united front for democracy by its commitment to the Commonwealth of Nations, demonstrates that democracy works for the people, when the idea to being met with serious opposition from autocracies around the globe.

Together with the US, Great Britain supports democracy out of principle, in which both Americans and the British believe.  

I hope things for Britain will get better.  But the "coming out" for GB I think has been a very-needed help in making a stand for democracy for all the world to witness!  

 

The Yemen Cease-Fire should be extended (indefinitely)!

I recall how long it took for there to be a cease-fire in Yemen. 

It's done a lot of good for the people in the area; and I'm supportive of its continuance.

Federal Government Headquarters can be distributed around the country!

I've been back in DC for the past 5 years working on government projects.  But most of the past 40 years, I was out on the field working at various cities in "field" situations.

Just the other day, I was listening to CSPAN and someone brought up the idea of re-distributing the central headquarters of certain departments and agencies around the country.  I applaud the idea, since I found invariably there's a cultural milieu that colors a particular locale that would have much less significance in the way the federal government functions in day-to-day transactions than when all the agencies and departments are in the same area of the country, viz., the DC district.

Moreover, some administrators just don't want to live in the northeast corner of the country!  They want to raise their kids elsewhere, too!

Personally, I welcomed living around the country, but then I started my volunteering when I was near retirement age.  

I recommend that the government be driven by hiring/bringing on a project team (many times as leader) the best thinkers that are doers and let these have deciding vote for agency/department headquarters.  I know that sounds weird, but I have my reasons!  

Anyway, I wanted to voice my opinion that I think it would be a good thing if all the major decision-making weren't fashioned in the same geological location of the country by people who come to think alike, culturally or go work in business!        

 

Where did President Trump learn so much about stolen elections?

Why from his good friend, President V. Putin of Russia.  Russia and Venezuela have been allies for years.  And, President Nicolas Maduro stayed in power after admitting he wasn't declared winner of a Presidential election in Venezuela.  He stayed in power thereafter as President.

So, President Trump had the very best tutor on fraudulent hanky-panky elections because of the close ties Russia has maintained with Venezuela over the years.  I think Russia continues to mine for gold there!

And, Trump knew well how to assert an election was invalid, if he but heeded the words of advice President Putin is prone to give, even when not even asked to.   Were any of the crowd who stormed the Capitol on January 6 from Venezuela.  They might have been sent to United States as Maduro's sign of support--e.g., "I'm with you, Trump!"

Given this historical background and present nation alignment, I would suspect that former President Trump will declare his candidacy for President in 2024.  He's got all the information about keeping his "Lie" going from what he could have learned from the Maduro experience in Venezuela; or he might further consult with President Putin.  

The US Supreme Court Justices may have caught sight of inepititude at democracy!

Tendency in all major advanced countries is to rely on the experts in a field.  During the COVID pandemic, it was the CDC agency.  Especially of concern is the EPA, whose pronouncements about the environment have met with resistance in business and industry over the years.  Resulting in serious water pollution problems in the state of Michigan, for instance.

The issue that I think the Justices have identified correctly, is the failure of these governmental agencies to garner support and trust within the groups that are causing environmental pollution and concern.  

Traditionally, as the framers of the Constitution would have wanted, when there's a social problem it would be brought to the attention of the Congress, where solution would be discussed and resolved.  But with companies armed with war chests into the billions, they have made Congressmen immune from the lowly protests of scientific cadre of practitioners.  

The situation of smoking causing lung cancer was resolved over many years during which the public could be apprised of the deleterious effects the practice wrought onto the citizenry.

So, rather than look upon the entrepreneurs as the "enemy," they must become the bearers of  scientific knowledge and truth.  That is to say, the companies themselves must employ among their ranks the scientists and field-wary practitioners to steer industry away from the wayward practices and technologies that are no longer advised or scientifically condoned.  Specifically, the entrepreneurs themselves must become knowledgeable intellects in scientific data and interpretation!

That is to say, realistically, Congress can be a conduit for fostering right practice, but the particular industries themselves must be the promoters of right and environmentally sound practices and technologies.  Particularly, the trade organizations must endorse the most current technological advances and see to it that other, possibly more ordinary, methods are no longer in vogue.

Surprisingly, industry is already accepting this new responsibility!   The Justices are actually behind the times!

      

President Xi of China has been moving the citizenry into cities from the countryside.

This rapid upheaval of the people has caused disorientation of a serious magnitude.  I have mentioned this before to the government and they slowed down the pace.

But the condition caused among the people is yet being a cause for concern.  President Xi is not attending to the issue sufficiently, probably because it is psychological in nature.  The condition is known generically as alienation.

I suspect the situation is acute in Hong Kong, though it is throughout the country.

It is affecting the trade routes' scheduling adversely, in my opinion--having international repercussions.

My opinion.

I have a great health aide; and she's worth the investment!

She's from Sierra Leone, Africa--real raw!  

But she's got the personality that is useful and sensitive.  She may turn out to be really a great human being--I mean it.

So, despite the frustrations of one living in a culture that is vastly beyond what she is used to, I'm committed to her development.  I believe she's got what it takes, so I'm willing to make the investment, despite all her foibles, etc.  She's a rare find!!

Unusual situation.  And, I'm benefitting by having her around, too.  I'm glad to admit!

My opinion.  

Thank you, US--my performance review

Things keep changing at my end; but I've still got that wonderful team I'm part of!

This half year I've accomplished a lot, but thanks goes to the US; and my federal sponsor.

Onward!

 

Russians complaining the Ukrainian conflict is lasting too long?

 Russians may be missing their creature comforts.  They are thought to be complaining that Ukrainian 'Nazis' should long past be defeated by now!  Is President Putin not well, they may be wondering?

This may account for the brutal attacks on the Ukrainian capital this weekend.  Hopefully, the G7 meeting will have measured out its suggested response for Ukraine in its fight to continue as a nation!

My opinion.  

Denuclearize Russian land: first step toward the world's freedom from Russian fear!

Prime Minister Boris Johnson already today announced on the Sunday talk shows that Russia is in the mining of gold business; and could be thus sustained for many years to come!  That is to say, they've saved their money, stashed it away during the many years of autocratic control the military has dominated over its government.

Now we know that the Russians are incapable of handling competently the nuclear arsenal on their land.  This has been shown time and time again even during the Ukrainian short conflict.

The nuclear arms commission must be brought in to "de-fuse" the Russian lands, before the country is declared on its own, e.g., capable of attacking another country without invasion-forces responding.

No sense, waiting any longer than the time it takes to overrun Russia with the effects of broadcasting TRUTH about Russian foreign policy for the past century.

The issue is, save the planet from the Russians!

My opinion. 

 

Progress to bring together the Arabs and Jews in the Holy Land!

Premiere Omert's plan to unite Arabs and Jews in the state of Israel is already underway.

Progress toward world peace. 

Good: Ukraine and Moldova granted candidate status in the EU!

Just a next step in making for a strong bond among people of the West.

Hooray! 

The Afghan Patriots are in need!

Brookings Institution had a discussion on the Afghan partners we left behind in Afghanistan.

That discussion showed that these people were being processed through wrong categories:  these are partners--whose risks were enormous.

The idea was advanced of the Australia program of resettlement.  I did not work over the evening and found the program could be applicable to these Afghans.

I want to recommend the program identified in the Brookings Discussion, May 13, 10:30 AM for prompt action to save the lives of  Afghan compatriots--some 160,000 left at the airport--waiting!

My opinion.

Brookings Discussion: "How America Failed Its Partners in Afghanistan"

The online discussion was held 6/13/2022, Monday, 10:30 AM.  Opening Remarks of welcome were delivered by Benjamin Wittes of Brookings.  The moderator was Bryce Khehm of Lawfare; panelists--Colonel Steve Miska, First  Amendment Voice; Shala Gafary, Afghan Legal Assistant at Human Rights First; Max Johnson, Goat Rodeo; and Matter Zeller, co-founder, No One Left Behind.

Noteworthy jottings:

1.  Those who could get out from Afghanistan needed a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV).  They would  have to go through Pakistan and their somewhat complicated entry system.

2.  Other settlement programs, like in Vietnam at the end of US presence there, don't serve as exemplars of how to resettle these partners of ours.

3.  There's probably about 160,000 who have SIV visas in Afghanistan, right now.

4.  Mr. Zeller suggests that probably the best government that could serve as a model for a viable program of resettlement is Australia; and he recommended it.

5.  At present, there is some attempt in Congress to take the You for You Program for United Free Ukrainians, barely 2 months old as a model.  It can be applied for over the phone, apparently.

My come-away comment:

All this seems like State Department driven rules and regulations, when what's needed is identification of  who's to be greeted and processed as a US-helping partner! 

  

President Putin is complaining: Russia's being isolated (and ostracized).

How will Russia ever find a way to continue making war products to fight in Ukraine, since the sanctions are in effect that are affecting Putin's Ukrainian War aims?

Also, NATO is pushing Ukraine's application for membership.

KEEP UP BIDEN'S PROGRAM OF SANCTIONS BECAUSE IT'S WORKING, FINALLY.  --That I can see.

My opinion.   

China is making some important supply chains more efficient!

--I understand.   I am hoping that the "least" the US can do is to assist China in its battle with the pandemic.  Its flared up again; and they're thinking of lockdown again in certain cities.

Please, can the US send medical consultants to help them, so that they don't go back but lick it once for all!  I'm just watching Bloomberg.   

Cordially, 

John Oastler 

Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov denies President Putin is "seriously ill."

The Economist June 4th issue reports of rumors that President Putin is "seriously ill." (p/.7).  

If so, it would explain why he's pushing so hard in Ukraine.

My opinion. 

A Defensive Force for the Organization of American States?

NATO has been so instrumental as to deter hostile aggressors from European shores, one wonders if the construct would not be useful in other regions of the world.

That SEATO did not take hold in South-West Asia, though it had been advanced at one time after WWII.

Then, might not the Organization of American States be considered as an institution that could benefit from a military arm?  I am thinking how Africa has made good use of its African Union to intercede in conflicts there.  

My suggestion--given how long it has taken to remove the present government in Venezuela that has proven reluctant to transfer power to another administration.     

Has President Biden ever heard of a paper tiger on the battlefield?

Ukrainians are dying for the cause of democracy; and their land is becoming devastated.

The United States and the West have come to their country's aid and succor.

But I cannot see the US Administration and the West's obvious end-game in mind.  The Russian military has been drastically reduced, to be sure, but equally obvious, being in that state, won't bring Russia to the negotiating table.  President Biden has made it clear the US does not want Russian land penetrated by forces of war.  The Russian military, though reduced to a mere force it once was, is being apparently treated with especial care by some Western on-lookers to its present performance in battle.  

The West should declare what its objectives are in helping Ukraine, if they are not helping Ukraine to reach a stage when negotiations are viewed as needed, expressed by both parties, to assure Ukrainian independence.   

My opinion.

Russia may be circumventing Biden's financial sanctions through mining for gold!

--And other valuable minerals worldwide.  They're in the Horn of Africa, as reported in the recent Brooking's online think-tank meeting last week, probably brought in by China, who's establishing a military base in the region.

While chaos pervades--the area is plagued by lack of humanitarian aide in the form of relief from food deprivation and oil for fueling.

Indeed, as the participants at the meeting pointed out, the area is being invaded by all-manner of groups, including terrorists, hungry for the minerals, possibly including gold, that are only recently being mined by any group that gets to "it" first, apparently!

Russia has for some years been working the mines and deposits of minerals in Venezuela.  These financial assets from mining probably are not subject to the sanctions on Russian financial disclosures already frozen through the imposition of United States' sanctions.     

Just my take-away from the Brooking's discussion on the Horn of Africa!    

It's ok to carry the fight for Ukraine into Russia!

I have been told that it's now 'ok' for the Ukrainian military to search out for targets to hit within Russia, itself.  

I can only say, "God speed!"

My opinion. 

What peace talks are occurring over Yemen War came about when the Houthis took on the Saudis in Saudi Arabia!

 President Zelenski is right: Russia is destroying Ukraine into oblivion and with impunity--no visible effect on the Russian lands.  

Does that  make sense?  It brought the Saudis to the negotiating table over Yemen atrocities. 

Will NATO allow the entire Ukrainian people to lose their identity before anything but promises come from the West?

Oh, this is reprehensible!  My opinion--how sad.  

Trip to New York City in July

I just received the outcomes of my trip to NYC on May 7th.  The results are beyond expectations and are promising indeed to warrant another trip. 

So, I'm putting together a day trip in July, sometime.  The problem I encountered at the Port Authority Terminal on May 7 was no cab would stop to pick me up at Port Authority.  I've got two places--one in Greenwich Village and another down at Canal Street, both in lower Manhattan.  I'd really prefer taking a cab around and back to Port Authority due to time constraints.  I'm  not planning on the subway for transportation, though it was suggested; and it would entail much more time!

Thanks in advance for anything you can arrange.

JLO 

  

Former PM Tony Blair's perceptive comment about President Putin, heard today on GPS program, CNN

The former Prime Minister commented on the analysis show GPS that President Putin had started out being President with a reformer's zeal only to realize that wasn't getting the results that would keep him in power, so he essentially joined with his comrades to rule the country in corrupt fashion!

Interestingly, I had reasoned to much the same conclusion that while he did well as President early on, he became autocratic and forceful of his own positions upon his people.  There seemed to be that moment about 7 or 8 years into his administration, when he changed, markedly.

I raise the observation, because President Zelensky had tried to institute reforms in his government at the urgings of the United States, but complained finally, that the task was impossible to achieve.  I never did learn how he resolved the matter in his own mind.

But if these former Communist countries that to some degree have accepted capitalism today are still rooted in cronyism and favoritism at the expense of justice and fairness in transactions, a wholesale sweep of the culture would seem necessarily appropriate (in the near future).

My opinion; and perhaps the opinion of Tony Blair voiced today on CNN's GPS Show.

.

Johnson's Britain welcomes immigrants!

This silliness in the US to stop immigration from the south has got to stop!  Oh yes, meet with the foreign governments in Central America and inform them through their treatment of the poor and the unwanted in their countries, they're losing the life's blood of their country's future.  After all, many great scientists and world renowned movers in industry and education have migrated at some point in their life to the shores of the United States or some other advanced nation in the world.

Like Britain.  You know, just now Britain even with Brexit in place is welcoming foreigners.  "Despite the many disruptions oof covid-19, Britain is issuing more work and study visas. The vast majority are not going to Europeans.  In 2921 people from India received almost 99,000 study visas, up  from a low point of 16,000 in 2015.  Nigerians were granted 10,000 skilled-worker visas and 43,000 study visas--about as many in the previous four years put together!...Filipinos received almost 10,000 skilled-worker visas, putting them in third place behind Indians and Nigerians." (The Economist April 9th, 2022 issue, p. 43)

Meaning in my opinion, if the nations valuing education to a lesser degree can't keep their workforce, the advanced nations will take them!  There's something to a university that benefits the society's development. 

As I say, my opinion. 

 

The sad truth: refugee children worldwide receiving less of an education!

 Africa, notably, want children who attend schools to pay for their education.  In countries across the continent, a public education isn't free.

This failure to consider educating children as a major priority of the society is a glaring determinant in keeping poverty a major feature of African life for many, many in the "backward" hinterlands.

The condition is reflective in the life of refugee children worldwide.  There is a glimmer of hope in what's happening for Ukrainian refugee children, ending up in Poland, however. Writes the Economist (April 9th, 2022 issue, p. 40) "Ukraine's refugee children are receiving more help than migrant kids elsewhere in the world. The UN thinks only about half of all children who have fled across an international border are getting lessons of any kind."  And specifically about Africa, countries are after investment funding for major world companies to establish manufacturing plants in their countries.  When, the continent is so lacking in prioritizing the education of children a major and essential societal concern?  THINK OF THE CHILDREN!! 

Are the world governments so gullible as to withhold judgment of the claims by Russia, the Invader?

Let the matter that Ukraine is fighting for the cause of Nazism be taken up on the agenda of a United Nations' Assembly meeting.

Given the lack of evidence for the charge against the Ukrainian Government, let the matter be open for debate.  Let India and China, to mention, just two of countries on the fence, come out against the position of the invaded Ukraine.  And let them demonstrate their "fair-minded handedness" of the Russian invasion of Russian troops.  Let it be made clear that Ukraine has not done nothing to Russia, except experienced the invasion of the Crimea, 7 years before; and has had to endure it, prior to Russia's recent announced invasion, to possibly obliterate the country--which has led to the current hostilities between them.

Or, cannot India nor Turkey nor China risk suffering from possible retaliatory trading acts that might be perpetrated against them by Russia, their current partner friends on the international, commerce scene?  Quite possibly, Russia would at least threaten them, should they disagree with its claim of Nazi infiltration into Ukraine.  

My opinion.

   

22nd Century Issue: How much cultural variation will a society stand?

Right now, American society through its governmental apparatus is trying to address the social issue of abortion--specifically, will society tolerate women's having an abortion of a fetus?

But there's a number of issues that some society or another is attempting to resolve:  a man having more than one wife (in some places where polygamy is permitted), homosexuality and the raising of children within that environment, and permitting more than one government to occupy a region within the boundaries accepted as the government ruling the same region (claims of a caliphate over lands ruled by an recognized government controlling the region as made by jihadists), and on and on it goes.

What is the prevailing practice in democracies is to enable citizens to cast the prevailing judgment of the people or in the instance of the US, to enable the Supreme Court to make its ruling based on its interpretation of legal precedent established over time.

Malcolm X recommended that certain states enforce a prevailing practice within the confines of their own state (as I interpret his writings).  This is what, essentially, some states are trying now with respect to abortion.

The point I'm making is that this problem is a recurring one and the more used practice in resolving the differences over a practice is to let the dominant culture within a multi-faceted milieu establish the rule of law.  But in the case of abortion, that doesn't work, for while society could permit the practice of abortion, the other side of the issue is claiming that abortion, what it views as an instance of genocide is condoning murder of a baby (while some culture allowing the practice claims a fetus is not a human being)!

The point I'm making that with the advent of modern science and its technology, the issue is becoming more pressing to favor cultural differences and variation permitted in law and condoned by prevailing cultural allegiance within the society.

And the paradigm I frequently allude to is Canada--where Quebec is culturally French but within the Canadian regime.

And, note, the United States government still acknowledges that the Indian tribes may practice their traditional old ways on their tribal lands--at least, to some degree.  

      

It's Time for the Russian people to contact their oligarchs and work together with the West

NATO and the US and the EU are waiting for change in Russia, starting with the Russian people's voice.

President Putin can be replaced with a new President; and democracy can enter even into the Kremlin!  No more need for distrust and sabotage.

I believe; my opinion.  

Brookings: "The Future of American Air Power" Discussion in Two Parts

On May 2, 2022, the Brookings Institution presented an online topic on the expanded use of the US Air Force in the world today.  I have long felt this topic has been neglected, because there is little thought given to what the Air Force could be doing for our allies and theaters of battle around the globe to make use of air power in places of conflict where we could bring up to speed use of the skies such that all mankind be free and independent--faster! 

That is to say, we must do everything we can to promote democracy through the US' sharing our advanced technology in the deploying of drones, missiles, hypersonics, airborne warning and control systems--all that can used in battle on the side favoring democracy and freedom of all peoples.  We must reach out with our use of technology in such instances worldwide (my opinion).  Doing so can only add to our reputation of promoting peace and prosperity in the cause of equitable justice for all.

Right now, our relationship with the courage-imbued Ukrainians to aid and train them in their struggle to remain free and independent is exemplar of what the US military can do to help struggling nations worldwide to maintain their borders and culture from invasion and subjugation.  And, it is the Air Force that is technologically in position to act as mentor to those allies who could benefit from US expertise during their existential battlements.

It is with this understanding of my vision of US Air Force--advising our partners in the use of air power capabilities to deter aggressive nations threatening them that I approached the two segmented discussions of the future of US Air Power--as lending a hand to our friends in need of technological upgrade.

Mt. Mike O'Hanlon, Brookings was the moderator of the first segment on the topic.  He interviewed the Hon. Frank Kendell, Secretary of the US Air Force.  It was brought out right at the outset that the US Air Force has a tall order: help stop aggression in the cause of peace, and do what-you-can to deter Russia's claws clamped upon Ukraine.  That is to say, be an adviser to our partners and friends in modern warfare techniques.

The opening up of outer space to military hardware and base exploration offers even more opportunities.

The Air Force extends its mission with an invitation to the industry to help in solving operational problems along the way.  It is anxiously anticipating working with its allies, e.g., Japan, upon possible missile threats, e.g., from N. Korea.  

Part 2 brought back Mr. O'Hanlon as moderator with Stephen Mueller of Northrop-Drummond, Mike Moeller, VP, Pratt-Whitney; and Ms. Rebecca Grant, Pres. of Iris Independent Research.  They talked about the technical problems encountered in connecting a present platform, operational, while building a new platform, and the importance of testing thoroughly before committing to any new technology, even by setting up mock conditions.  All very, gloriously, technical! 

My status report

My projects are doing well indeed!

I've got more things on the horizon to work on, but in time.  I want to thank my team, my sponsors worldwide, the Pentagon, and above all, the United States in having faith that I could do what I've already accomplished or have paved the way for civilization to progress.

For my part, I am thankful for having been given this opportunity to serve my country and my world.  

I am looking forward to doing more, as long as I can!  

Thank you.

 

 

NATO advisers are allowed in the Ukrainian high command.

 I've gotten the legal opinion that having NATO advisers in Ukraine does not constitute starting WWIII!

Please be so advised.

My considered opinion.

China's giving up 30 years of progress to favor Communist ideology instead of science and rationality!

About the only ones standing for democratic common sense is the Western World!  Putin's out there "somewhere" and Xi's about to join him!  The odd couple.

Putin doesn't know what to do: gas and oil won't be going to Europe soon.  Xi won't listen to common sense and forsake communistic rhetoric.   

Nevertheless, President Biden is leading the West in the tradition of Theodore Roosevelt and F.D.R: he's making common sense proposals, given an upsurge in heinous criminal acts against humanity and nature's raw deal in climate change.

Germany, too, shows great courage, even as Great Britain and France, and the EU are, too.  Clearly, the West's leaders are committed to using good, common sense!  Where is the UN, these days?  Possibly, trying to catch up!

My humble opinion.     

The two "independents" of Ukraine are free from foreign control!

It is important to the EU that President Zelensky meet with the 2 declared "independent" provinces to deal with their concerns.

My opinion.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, thank God you pulled off Brexit!

Thanks for the British help on the international scene--since Brexit.

London would be the ideal location for Bitcoin international monitoring.

Hi, my FBI friends in England.

My opinion.

P.S.  There's a lot more!

 

How soon the civilized world forgets how NATO brought to a close the Yugoslav wars of 1990s!

What we need today, in my opinion, is NATO's brilliance in ending the West Balkan War : Yugoslavian forces vs. the KLA  (Kosovo Liberation Army) in the late 1990s.  Must we await a massacre like that of Racak (1999) for NATO intervention through the United Nations.  Then--the universal calls for peace and the end of hostilities were finally heard from the civilized people of this world at NATO headquarters.

But Yugoslavia is no more; and Russia is now the aggressor in the current Ukrainian War.  Incidentally, Kosovo, today, is democratic.  How it is that democracy is a victim of a tyrant's ire!  

Because the tyrant knows nothing of the rule of law!

My opinion.

  

The Eastern Provinces of Ukraine were desirous of being independent of Russian governance!

To my knowledge, the provinces Russia wants to claim don't want anything to do with President Putin nor Russian rule of their lands.  Beware of sabotage!

That's how they helped destroy the USSR.

My opinion.  I still think Russia wants V. Putin to go as President.  Repeat--my opinion.  

My job is to do the required philosophical analysis!

It will take volumes to unpack "ethical integrity" and all its implications.

Suffice that I can indicate the importance of carrying forth the significance of this appellation.  Without establishing its ethical integrity, a nation cannot be the primary moral leader of the world of states.  Perhaps, no state would qualify, but that is outside my realm of training as a philosopher. 

My professional opinion (Ph.D. in philosophy, NYU '69).     

Confirm: Integrity (over time)

Confirm:  What is needed is that the US maintain an integrity both in word and deed among the nations of the world.  

It can be accomplished at least once--and then it will be easier to continue!

My humble opinion.

  

What's the matter with the practice of democracy in USA?

There is a major problem that has plagued the US a long before my time.  My sponsors want me to remind the Biden administration of it.  So, here I go!

It was pointed out during the loss of Afghanistan: The United States pulls out when it decides to pull out.  Because the US did not see results that indicated the country was a well-functioning democracy after 20 years of our military presence, the Trump administration, followed by the Biden group, both announced--the one and the other--that the US military was leaving; and taking its Allies with them!

Before that, Trump just decided he would pull out of an international agreement to monitor Iran's development of nuclear weaponry, specifically, a nuclear bomb--leaving the other parties to that understanding in the lurch.

I remember in my college days hearing my professors making the same criticism against the US.  Because of the change in administrations, made possible at the end of four years, there's little reason to think the next administration will think like the one it supplanted; and honor any time commitments previously affirmed by a former US administration.

So, the present Russian government had little reason to suspect that the US through NATO would come to the aid of Ukraine when it was invaded by the mighty Bear of the North!

One suggested remedy:  Choose from a list of Presidential candidates running for office, that is composed of persons no older than 50, so that there is a continuum of persons who live longer as former Presidents to encourage the keeping of international commitments longer than for the longevity of a US Administration. 

Former Presidents could serve as a reminder of the ethical reasons for the US' living up to its commitments.

Just a thought on how to solve.  The problem is a serious one of ethics: specifically, the ethical integrity of a government.

My opinion.

Ukrainians are in need of relief after 8 years!

 Ukrainians, we all admit, have been on the battlelines for the 8 past years.  That's a very long period without relief from the supporting lines of designated reserves.

My opinion, which to me seems obvious: They can't do it all alone on their battlefields! 

Russia is bringing into the fray Syrian military, Russia says!

As advisers or troops on the ground, these fresh recruits are entering Ukrainian space.  

Why cannot Ukrainians benefit from, say, a Turkish military adjunct contingent to assist the Ukrainian military forces?  Especially, if the Pentagon is right, the war is to become protracted, largely due to the length of time it takes for sanctions to be effectively applied.

I think consensus is worldwide, Ukrainian forces have proven their mettle.  It has yet to be convincing that they must go it alone under protracted conditions.  Also, has the newly organized Brit Expeditionary Force been given its tactical mission?  Perhaps, it might prove useful, too.

Democracy has many nations Ukraine can rely upon for supporting intervention and relief.

My opinion.

I've got to get better protection than this!

Where is the FBI when my doctor tells me this morning my lower back has been sewn up with stitches not taken out yet!  They took it out at George Washington Medical.

Come on, I had better protection in El Paso, Texas.  Only, I've got serious work I'm getting done here in DC.  Future generations, I'm improving their lot on earth--my goal.

Over and out!  

3 Regions where they speak Russian in Ukraine!

To my knowledge, it's Dombas, Luhansk, and Crimea.

Now in 2014, Crimean citizens favored being absorbed into Russia; but those living either in Dombas or Luhansk did not.  If a region wouldn't go with Russia, it would stay with Ukraine.

But now, Russia has deliberately invaded each of these regions; and I understand, Russia wants to claim each as its own because of the present occupation.  I would think it is no longer entitled to claim these lands, wherein it has forcibly seized each of them.