21st Century Solutions for International Relations

Statement on Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Feb.24, 2022

by Hon. Teta V. Banks, Ed.D.

President , International Forum, Inc.

The world woke up to a dire situation of a sovereign nation being invaded by Russia. Our country, and others of like minds, must go beyond hope and act in a way that halts such violence. Most importantly, this is a time that tests the power and commitment of the United Nations to fulfill its charter as it states, " WE THE PEOPLES OF THE UNITED NATIONS DETERMINED ...to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war..."

This week, some of our international friends dialogued with exiting members of UN Security Council at an urgent time of the unfolding of this crisis. Yesterday,  the World Affair Council of Houston hosted a meeting  with four ambassadors of eastern European countries as they discussed the history, impact, and actions needed in this crisis.

We know first-hand that "what affects one directly affects all indirectly," as Dr. King stated more than a half century ago. There is no doubt today, in this 21st century, about the importance of the UN and international cooperation among nations. The lives of millions are at stake. No nation can ignore the urgent cry for help. Action is necessary. Nations large and small will stand in the wake of what happens in Ukraine.