Published on February 21, 2025, at 3 AM PT.
To the editor:
Reflecting on the Trump administration’s meeting with Russia to negotiate an end to the conflict in Ukraine, one cannot help but feel a deep sense of betrayal—akin to historical figures like Kim Philby, Vidkun Quisling, and Ephialtes of Trachis. It seems almost inevitable that the president’s next controversial move might be to posthumously honor Robert Hanssen, the former FBI agent turned Russian spy, with a service medal.
President Trump seems to thrive in global disorder. His track record suggests that he lacks both a moral compass and integrity. Many of his voters believed his promises to address critical issues like inflation and healthcare. However, his actions appear to be diverging dramatically from what his supporters envisioned. This serves as a harsh reminder of the consequences of placing trust in a leader whose words and deeds are often inconsistent and misleading.
Trump’s approach to Ukraine is nothing short of appalling, and the impact on Americans is a breach of constitutional principles.
Rudi Gomez, Pasadena
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To the editor:
Amid the chaos instigated by Trump, he once again attempts to rewrite history, trying to spin a narrative where Russia isn’t the instigator of this conflict and paints Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as a dictator. The irony is not lost—it’s the proverbial pot calling the kettle black. Under different circumstances, such claims might seem comedic, but the gravity of the situation is anything but amusing.
Forging alliances with Russia while turning our backs on true allies like those in NATO is a move fraught with peril. It’s equally disturbing to see Congress turning a blind eye and the Supreme Court’s ruling providing Trump with unwarranted immunity. All these actions contribute to the unsettling decline of the United States.
Sheryl Kinne, Van Nuys
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To the editor:
It’s crucial to call out blatant falsehoods rather than presenting them as equal sides of a debate. Your print edition headline, “Zelensky and Trump trade barbs over war,” should more accurately reflect the situation, suggesting instead, “Trump perpetuates Russian propaganda through falsehoods.”
The subheadline implies a mere exchange of opinions, stating, “The Ukrainian is called a ‘dictator’ by U.S. leader, who he says echoes Russian disinformation.” However, it’s essential to recognize that Zelensky is stating facts, while Trump’s assertions are anything but.
Margaret Russell, Tarzana
