Ukraine Flashpoint Glows Brighter With Russian "Invasion"

Photo Coutesy:  ABC News

In case you've been living under a rock, you know that Russian troops recently landed in Ukraine after weeks of rioting and violence, with the future direction of the nation and its people at stake. . The troops have surrounded military bases and have urged Ukrainian militants to surrender and to give them their weapons.

This is the latest tipping point in what has been an under-reported struggle between spheres of influence. Ukraine has been split between joining the EU or remaining within Russia's sphere, splitting the nation in half.

Obviously, Putin does not want to lose Ukraine. So,  he decides to invade, with the full support from his government.  Even though Russia is blocking access to Ukrainian bases, Putin said that the Ukrainian army will still be able to continue protecting the nation..

Tensions are growing - NATO has told Russia that it should not interfere with the struggles within  Ukraine and should leave at once -even though Ukraine is not a NATO member.  That means the United States is not obligated to come to Ukraine's defense, despite Ukrainians' pleas for help.  Ukrainian Prime Minister Yatsenyuk said, "This is not a threat. This is actually a declaration of war to my country." 

 "We are on the brink of the disaster!"

(Editor's Note - Vito DiGiovanni is a student at Brooklyn College, a contributor to the show and co-host of the Vito & Vito Show - a Brooklyn GOP Radio Production.  Check out the show blog and V&V's Facebook page)