As a student at the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Political Science and Russian and Eastern European Studies, there was a real-world application assignment where we analyzed what it would take for Russia to abandon its occupation of Crimea. We discussed imposing sanctions, theorized about freezing assets, and discussed several other geopolitical resolutions. Ultimately, we acknowledged there was only one way it would happen: by military force through war. This is important to remember, given current events and subsequent performative outrage over recognizing who controls Crimea.

The recent revelation that, allegedly, part of the proposed peace deal brokered by the U.S. in the war between Russia and Ukraine involves the U.S. recognizing Crimea as Russian territory has drawn considerable criticism. Many have rushed to claim that doing so advances Russian talking points and interests. Naturally, opponents have once again used this to argue that President Donald Trump is doing Russia’s bidding and are outraged at the notion of Crimea being recognized as Russian territory. 

But if they are outraged at this, then they should blame those responsible for allowing Russia to seize the Crimean peninsula: former President

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