Thursday open thread: A modest proposal

Well, hello everyone.

At some point, the Russo-Ukraine War will end. This will most likely end in a Ukrainian victory, in the sense that Russia, under its president Vladimir Putin, will have achieved none of its objectives. Indeed, Putin's actions will result in the exact opposite of what he wished: A Ukraine with an identity very distinct from Russia, and a Ukraine firmly in the camp of the West.

Then what?

The most glaring issue will be rebuilding Ukrainian cities. Western firms will be in the catbird's seat to snag these contacts. Russia will again be shut out of economic opportunity.

But who will pay for this? Ukraine's economy is going to contract this year, due to being bombed. 

No doubt, Western nations will pour resources into Ukraine. But that has a limit. And, unlike after World War One, there likely won't be a resolution where Russia pays reparations to Ukraine.

So, here's my proposal: Seize all Russian assets in the West.

Take all the oligarchs' money. Take any Russian government money parked in Western institutions. Do not resume normal relations with Russia until Ukraine has recovered from its illegal, destructive invasion.

We have the money to rebuild Ukraine. It's sitting in frozen assets. And those who own those assets profited from the regime which led to this disastrous war.

Anyway, as Beau of the Fifth Column says: It's just a thought. Y'all have a good day.