It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace– but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
Text of Patrick Henry’s speech to the Virginia House of Burgesses
Just to be clear: I think it is appropriate for Americans to stand here idle. It’s not our war. But Ukrainians seem to be undecided as to whether they should do something. They don’t seem to grasp that the war has begun, and they are in it, and they are losing.
Imaging Mexico bidding to join Warsaw Pact in 1979?
What has to be a US reaction?