Sympathy for the victims of imperialism is a noble sentiment. But I am puzzled that Labour’s unusual leader feels this so keenly when Asia,Africa and Latin America are concerned, but seems so unaware of the past, and present and future of imperialism on the European continent. Lithuania has in living memory experienced imperialism through occupation,linguistic and cultural oppression, the destruction of civil society and public institutions, or rape,looting, deportation and mass murder. The perpetrators of these crimes bear not been punished. Nor has Russia, and the successor state to the Soviet Union,apologised or paid compensation. Instead it praises our oppressors as heroes and justifies Stalins destruction of half of Europe as geopolitical necessity.
This is not just a historical injustice; the Kremlin continues to menace its former victims countries which it should treat with especial sensitivity and respect. It has invaded Ukraine and Georgia, seizing territory and creating puppet states. It wages economic warfare against neighbouring countries, and runs a venomous propaganda campaign portraying them as failed,fascist and friendless. Russia’s fast-modernising military rehearses conventional and nuclear attacks against Nato allies.
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Source: theguardian.com