Do svidaniya

Disclaimer: The following is solely my personal opinion. It does not reflect the views of my employers past and present.

There is much to mourn about Ukraine. One of them is the closing of the door between Russia and us. Even if a resolution happens soon, that door will be closed for a long time. This not only means the end of professional relationships and opportunities, it means the death of a dream we’ve had for decades.

Growing up during the Cold War, I had the hope of many that Russia and the West will not only find peace, we can be partners and friends. If we can find reconciliation and friendship with our mortal enemies during World War II, why not with the Soviet Union? It was a hope expressed by President John F. Kennedy in his inaugural address:

Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.

Let both sides, for the first time, formulate serious and precise proposals for the inspection and control of arms — and bring the absolute power to destroy other nations under the absolute control of all nations.

Let both sides seek to invoke the wonders of science instead of its terrors. Together, let us explore the stars, conquer the deserts, eradicate disease, tap the ocean depths and encourage the arts and commerce.

Let both sides unite to…