The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the death and the destruction that we see on the media are heartbreaking.
In all conflicts, each side has justifiable reasons, but it is not right to resort to military intervention to resolve disputes. I sincerely hope that the current military conflict comes to an end as soon as possible and that the Ukrainian people can quickly recover their sense of normalcy and peace. Let’s take a moment of silence (and meditation) to wish for peace.
For the war to end as soon as possible, the international community must come together and send a unified message that it is not right to settle disputes with military force. However, the most effective solution will be for the Russian citizens to raise their collective voices in asking the Russian government for a prompt end to the war.
The crucial factor in ending the Vietnam War was not military victories or defeats. Ultimately, it was the anti-war movements by many people asking for peace within the U.S. that helped to end the war. It is necessary for the international community to cooperate to restrain Russia’s unjustifiable actions with economic and diplomatic sanctions. However, it is also very important for people in all corners of the world to continuously raise their voices for peace.
May all living beings be happy and peaceful.
February 27, 2022
Venerable Pomnyun Sunim
