The extent to which I educated myself about the case and policy options before
engaging in the simulation was quite limited. I say this because the main sources I used
consisted of the policy papers provided in class as well as the articles listed in the
announcements. I do feel that even after reading the varying perspectives, I was still at a loss
maybe as a result of the lack of personalization or interest. I do however plan to dive deeper into
these subjects revolving around intergovernmental affairs and political disputes on the
international scale. I also took into account the lesson plans that covered the war in Ukraine and
where exactly Russia stands on the matter.
The extent to which I attempted to consult diverse sources mainly took place the day we
were in groups. This was very advantageous to my learning because I was able to hear all of
the varying viewpoints as to how authors and journalists believe or hope the war on Ukraine will
end. To provide some insight, the policy paper that I was assigned discussed the tactic of
attacking Crimea in order to weaken Russia and put them in a vulnerable position militarily and
economically. Other ideas consisted of plans to negotiate a ceasefire or withdraw from
supporting Ukraine entirely. After we each elaborated on the perspectives we were assigned
with, we came together to formulate what would be the best plan for Ukraine which was to have
some form of negotiation or peace deal set in place.
I was able to keep an open mind for the majority of the semester thanks to the vast
supply of evidence and case studies we covered all throughout. Although unrelated to the war
on Ukraine, Operation Inherent Resolve definitely set off that spark as we began questioning the
true intentions of the administration behind it all. More specifically, we were analyzing whether
the motive was predominantly humanitarian or self-preservative. To tie this back into the conflict
between Russia and Ukraine, I enjoyed hearing the opposing viewpoints as to what America
should do with Ukraine and whether or not we should continue funding them. As the simulation
developed, my opinion was gradually beginning to shift from transitioning back to the 1991
borders to 1991 borders except for Crimea after learning exactly how much value it contributes
to the overall goal.
The main challenges that I encountered during the simulation was for the most part
having to wrap my head around all of the variables that played into the war which consisted of
the past history between the two, the economic status and debatable stability. Many of the
actors made valid points that I didn't necessarily completely understand or was able to master. I
immediately assumed that they had a fair share of background knowledge before even enrolling
into the course. Other than lack of knowledge I can truly say that there were any other issues
since most students were given the opportunity to make their case. I like to think we achieved
our objective and that the simulation was successful since we did land on a final decision.
A few things I learned from the simulation include a sneak peek into how think-tanks
function, the various ways in which Ukraine can fight back against Russia and weaken certain
defenses, and also the roles that are set in place to assist the president in making vital
decisions. Although the discussion may not have been perfect or the simulation may not have
been exactly how think tanks operate, it shed some light on the very real drawbacks and
advantages that are apparent when there is a meeting of the minds with opposing viewpoints. I
think it's extremely important that these discussions take place because otherwise, no true
progress can be made. In addition, I realize that there are of course many more roles that exist
to support the government and balance of powers. In good reasoning, the amount of options to
choose from was narrowed to the ones most important during critical moments when a decision
needs to be made that more than one country is depending on.
One issue that received quite a load of attention was the matter of funding and where it
should be directed. I do distinctly remember the specific advice not to dwell on such matters, but
I do feel it may have been inevitable given the true state of the conflict and the solutions that
arose during the debate. Another issue that came up was the logic behind why people would
rather shift Ukraine back to 1991 borders without attempting to claim Crimea. One of the more
outspoken and knowledgeable members of the simulation shed light on why not fighting to
reclaim Crimea would set a precedent that it's okay for Russia to practically steal land and not
have to face any consequences whatsoever. I very much agree with this viewpoint because it's
dangerous given the fact that neighboring countries may follow such anarchic practices.
I think the group primarily focused on long-term solutions due to the fact that this crisis
we find ourselves in is nothing new. There has been a recurring pattern taking place on the
international scene and it's safe to say that everything we ignored and pushed off is finally
catching up with us. We now understand that we have to put an end to such dangerous
behavior that Russia portrayed and it goes beyond just Ukraine at this point. If we were to let
things play out, Russia may eventually take all of Ukraine and look elsewhere for more. If we
help Ukraine restore the 91’ borders, including Crimea, that would, in turn, set a positive
precedent for all other parties to respect and follow behind.
In regards to the final decision that was made by the president himself, there was a great
prioritization of the economic stability of the United States, as there should be of course. Many
members of the group felt we shouldn't pour so much money into Ukraine’s artillery and military
forces if it's not achieving the desired result. In all honesty, I do feel that something should take
place in order for Ukraine to succeed because if we don't, the Russia problem could snowball
into a much bigger issue later on down the line. This kind of goes back to the precedent topic
and reinforces why it's so important and prudent that we settle things now before they get any
worse. One thing I do hope for is that the actual advisors to the president are considering all of
the factors and arrive at a reasonable solution, one that helps Ukraine defend itself against
Russia.