Overtures to Peace Won't Work with the West

For history geeks, one might remember that Alexander I of Russia met Napoleon in the meeting between two emperors, as Russia had to grapple with what seemed an unstoppable force. Perhaps a framework for peace was hoped for, but Napoleon invaded instead. Alexander would later enter Paris, as he had finally understood that it was him or me, and so he realized that no real compatibility could be had or any peace framework. And this comparison might be useful today, as the Russian government said that the war in Ukraine must result in a new security framework for all of Europe. And I think we are moving to that step where President Putin will say the same to any American leader, «It's you or me!» but it can't be both ways. And Russia is being forced to face what it has in many ways over the centuries once again. In proof of Napoleon's nefarious plans, I remember that in Graz, Austria, he commanded the castle on the hill to be torn down as the town had not surrendered to him. I was on a teen volunteer group in a small village outside of Graz and sometimes came to Graz for tourism. The West too is acting infuriatingly toward anyone who questions their ways. The political pressure on Georgia is incredible. And again, we see the West as Napoleon's grandiose plans to subdue the world, which will brook no compromise and only be interested in complete submission. And so the lesson of appeasement from Alexander I's time is pertinent today as well, as the time is getting close...