Hello 58

International Brazenness
 
It is said that time heals all wounds, and I hope that’s true because America has many scars. We will need not only time but significant changes to repair our damaged nation. It may be a while before we remember what it feels like to be truly American. With all the kind and caring people here, it's hard to believe we're treating friends as enemies and enemies as friends. The Trump administration began bombing Iran without consulting Congress or the public. He gave a speech to the nation and didn’t mention that in two days he would strike Iran. He also failed to inform our European allies. The conflict is destroying cities, neighborhoods, and children in Iran, as well as American military bases in the Middle East. What lies ahead remains uncertain. After one day of attempts to negotiate a ceasefire, Vice President Vance declared that Iran refused to accept U.S. terms. He said the U.S. made its “red lines” very clear and was not willing to compromise on them. 

Yes, the U.S. is exhibiting its brazenness at its worst on the international stage! The Trump administration has abandoned Ukraine; some say it has betrayed them. He insulted President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in front of the world in the Oval Office and redirected his attention to Venezuela, Iran, and, I think, Cuba and Greenland are next on the list. 

Then we received a grace moment. 
Two-thirds of Hungarians voted against Viktor Orbán’s 16-year autocracy and elected a leader who leans toward democracy! This is a major victory for Hungary and the U.S. alike. The Trump administration borrowed Orbán’s authoritarian playbook for Project 2026, and it’s crushing us. The lies, through-the-roof prices for food, oil, and other essentials, and his disregard for Americans and others around the world who don’t bow down. Trump is an autocratic bully! Americans are resisting and developing a response that will be realized in the 2026 elections.

When he accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, President Jimmy Carter said, “We have not assumed that super strength guarantees super wisdom, and we have consistently reached out to the international community to ensure that our own power and influence are tempered by the best common judgment.” 

America needs less bullying and more wisdom and common judgment. 


Thanks for reading. Leave a comment so I know you're out there. There is some hope.