I like Sachs, even if I do not share all of his views. Ukraine must be allowed to decide for itself, and there is no question that Russia is violating international law. Whether there is a backstory or not does not change that fact. The role of the West is concerning as well. Instead of fueling the fire, they should be sending diplomats to Moscow every day.  I wish they would finally find a way for negotiations and a ceasefire. War is terrible.