Recommended Reading

Most Americans know very little about Ukraine, and not until Russia's war against the Ukrainian people have they given the nation much thought or were even able to locate it quickly on a map, if at all.  This is not a criticism, but merely an observation of the consequence of American education. 
 
Since Russia has invaded, there has been no shortage of opinions about the crisis here.  Some Americans have become apologists for Kremlin aggression, while others maintain more hawkish sentiments.  Still, while at least vaguely aware of Ukraine, most Americans remain largely ignorant of the Ukrainian people and their history, culture and language.  They also have limited knowledge regarding the incredibly complex political and military climate, as well as its profound affect on world diplomacy and economics, which is why I recommend an extremely important book.  If you want to truly understand Ukraine and why the Ukrainian people are so determined to preserve their language, culture, and independence, please read Timothy Snyder's Bloodlands:  Europe Between Hitler and Stalin.
 
In some ways it is understandable when individuals lack certain knowledge of a country in which they no personal experience or direct education, but when a previously unknown nation suddenly takes center stage in world politics and diplomacy, people have a responsibility to learn as much as they can before formulating opinions and making statements. 
 
I rarely insist that individuals read a particular book.  This is one exception.  If you want to understand Ukraine, please, please, please read Bloodlands, and if you want to post comments at online blogs and media sites about the situation with Russian and Ukraine, then reading Snyder's immensely important work is absolutely critical.  And please ask your elected officials to read Bloodlands, for it will prove a valuable resource for them, as well.