Russia’s economic prosperity over the last three decades has been a smokescreen for moral bankruptcy and global incompetence. Sen. John McCain recognized this truth back in 2014 when he declared that Russia is “a gas station masquerading as a country.” That insight rings even truer today.

We saw another glimpse of Russia’s hollow performance recently when it unveiled an AI-powered humanoid robot meant to showcase technological advancement. Moments after the grand reveal, the robot tripped and fell face-first. In a scene that perfectly captures the Russian system, someone rushed to cover the failure with a black curtain – as if embarrassment could somehow be erased by denial. This is quintessential Russia: a glossy shell built on corruption, propaganda, and fear.

Many people around the world are rightly celebrating the Israeli hostages who have been released from Gaza and the fragile ceasefire that is currently in place. Moments of reunion — and the prolonged agony felt by families of the remaining 13 deceased hostages — remind us that human life is precious beyond words.

Yet there is still another group of hostages in Gaza: countless Palestinian children trapped in fear, parents trapped in rubble, and a generation trapped between grief and uncertainty. For many Palestinians, this is a time to mourn.

Russia's ongoing rhetoric and military aggression make it clear that its aim is not peace, but domination and destruction.

There was a time when Americans were outraged by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. What we witnessed three years ago violated our core values and convictions – freedom was threatened, democracy was at stake. But as time passed, we grew tired and distracted. Now, a new U.S. administration is forcefully shifting the narrative around Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine is no longer viewed as an ally to be supported, and Russia is no longer treated as an enemy to be sanctioned.

With the recent suspension of USAID funding, the work of grassroots organizations like The Renewal Initiative is even more critical. Please continue to stand with the people of Ukraine as they wait for a resolution to this conflict. Even after the war ends, there will be years of rebuilding lives and restoring dignity.