The war in Ukraine entered its 1,000th day yesterday, a grim milestone marked by a bold Ukrainian strike into Russian territory using U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles. This act of defiance underscores Ukraine’s determination to reclaim its sovereignty against Vladimir Putin’s aggression, a battle that resonates deeply with those who value freedom and the rule of law. Yet, as we assess this development, Christians and conservatives must grapple with how to best support Ukraine while resisting the forces of tyranny and chaos.

The Moral Imperative to Support Ukraine

Ukraine’s fight is not just geopolitical; it is moral. A Christian worldview compels us to stand with the oppressed against the oppressor. Putin’s war of aggression violates the sanctity of human life, uprooting millions and causing untold suffering. As stewards of justice, Christians must advocate for a global order that punishes, not rewards, such egregious violence.

Critics argue that supporting Ukraine risks escalating the conflict, particularly in light of Putin’s recent nuclear saber-rattling. Yet history teaches us that appeasement emboldens tyrants. From the appeasement of Hitler in the 1930s to the unchecked expansion of authoritarian regimes today, the cost of inaction is always paid in blood and freedom. Strength, not timidity, is the surest path to peace.

Biden’s ATACMS Decision: A Missed Opportunity for Leadership

As I previously noted, President Joe Biden’s recent approval of long-range missiles for Ukraine is commendable but tragically overdue. For nearly three years, his administration hesitated to provide Ukraine with the tools needed to defend its territory and deter Russian advances. This delay allowed Russia to consolidate gains and deepen its stranglehold on occupied regions.

As Biden prepares to leave office, his sudden pivot to stronger support for Ukraine seems motivated more by legacy-building than principle. Yet, even a belated decision to empower Ukraine is better than none. By equipping Ukraine with advanced weaponry, the U.S. not only strengthens its ally but also sends a message to adversaries like China and Iran that aggression will not go unchallenged.

The Trump Factor: Tough Talk or Empty Promises?

Donald Trump’s promise to end the war within 24 hours reflects his characteristic bravado but lacks a clear strategy. His prior deference to Putin and affinity for autocratic leaders raise concerns about what such a settlement would entail. Would a Trump-brokered “peace” secure Ukraine’s sovereignty, or would it merely legitimize Russian territorial theft?

While Trump may claim to have leverage over Putin, his past record suggests otherwise. Putin’s recent escalation—deploying North Korean troops and launching renewed missile barrages—indicates he sees Trump’s return as an opportunity to press for favorable terms. True strength would involve standing firm with Ukraine, not negotiating away its future.

Russia’s Nuclear Threats: Bluff or Catastrophe?

Putin’s updated nuclear doctrine, which lowers the threshold for nuclear weapon use, is a chilling reminder of the stakes in Ukraine. Yet, Christians grounded in faith must reject the paralysis of fear. Nuclear weapons are tools of deterrence, not practical instruments of war. To cower in the face of Putin’s bluster is to grant him undue power over the West’s resolve.

Conservatives must also consider the long-term implications of appeasing Russia’s nuclear rhetoric. Yielding to such threats sets a dangerous precedent, signaling to rogue states that nuclear blackmail is a viable strategy. Standing firm now is not just about Ukraine; it is about safeguarding a future where might does not make right.

Ukraine’s Resilience: A Testament to Faith and Freedom

Ukraine’s resilience is a testament to the power of a people united by faith in their nation and their future. It reminds us that freedom is worth fighting for, even when the odds seem insurmountable. We should draw inspiration from Ukraine’s courage and commit to supporting them not just with weapons but with prayers, humanitarian aid, and unwavering advocacy.

A Conservative Vision for Victory

The path forward must combine strength with strategy. The U.S. should continue providing Ukraine with the advanced weaponry needed to reclaim its territory while pressuring allies to increase their support. At the same time, America must pursue diplomatic channels that prioritize justice and accountability, ensuring any peace settlement preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and security.

A robust Ukraine, free from Russian domination, is in America’s interest and aligns with conservative principles of self-determination, limited government overreach, and the defense of natural rights. As stewards of these values, we must resist the siren call of isolationism and remain engaged in this defining struggle.

Conclusion: Faith in Action

The war in Ukraine is more than a geopolitical conflict; it is a moral and spiritual battle against tyranny. Supporting Ukraine is not merely about opposing Russia; it is about affirming the sanctity of freedom, the dignity of nations, and the unyielding power of faith. In this fight, let us pray, act, and stand firm, knowing that in the face of darkness, light will prevail.