[Robert DeLong]

The state eventually disintegrated into rival regional powers and was ultimately destroyed by the Mongol invasions of the 13th century. The area was then contested, divided, and ruled by a variety of external powers for the next 600 years, including the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, the Austrian Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and the Tsardom of Russia.

Iven The Terrible lifespan was from 1530-1584, so who was in control of Ukraine during that period I can't pinpoint who was in control, but I suspect it was the Mongols and then for a brief period Poland–Lithuania, formally known as the Kingdom of Poland and the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

Leaving me to believe that Ivan The Terrible was attacking non Ukrainians, even though there may have been some Ukrainians still living there. The area has not been in the hands of Ukrainians for much of the time.

Now, add in all the politicians the ‘labs’ the laundering and it is still a mess not worthy of my attention.

I think the majority of Americans have come to that conclusion. It smells like another protracted conflict that we can't afford to be involved in. Especially financial support when we are in a real debt situation coupled with a declining economy.

[Terry L Smith]

i thank you for your summation.

As one who spent time “ in big muddy” in the early ‘70’s, and then involvdd in The Cold War for a number of years, I concur.

(just like that little fellow Fezzini said in ‘The Princess Bride’ about a land war in Asia. Inconceivable!)