Tensions are escalating between the U.S. and Russia over possible Russian military action against Ukraine. The situation is complex, and we oppose both acts of aggression by Russia and military posturing by the U.S. Military threats only escalate conflict and risk increased and potentially catastrophic loss of life.
As a Quaker peacebuilding organization, we have seen over our century of work that much can be accomplished when we turn away from violence and toward cooperation. We call on all parties to reject military engagement at any level. We call on the U.S. to ensure that any sanctions imposed on Russia do not impact health, food access, or other basic needs of the Russian people.
The U.S. has over-invested in the military and under-invested in diplomacy and international cooperation. This has left the government with few constructive options to reduce tensions. Now is the time to uphold human dignity and invest in international institutions that increase our shared security through nonviolent means.