The world stands at a crossroads. In Ukraine, the war grinds on, with destruction mounting and no clear path forward. We must ask ourselves: What is the endgame? What kind of world do we want to build—not just for today, but for the generations to come?

The answer cannot be more war, more devastation, and more escalation. It cannot be a reckless strategy that backs a nuclear power into a corner, nor can it be blind indifference that allows tyranny to triumph. The path forward demands something far more difficult—courageous diplomacy, pragmatic leadership, and the moral strength to pursue peace even when war seems like the easier answer.

John F. Kennedy, in his historic Peace Speech, reminded us that “genuine peace must be the product of many nations, the sum of many acts.” That remains true today. A sustainable peace in Ukraine will not be achieved through airstrikes alone but through a new understanding—one that protects Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing the fundamental security concerns that fuel this war. Ukraine must remain independent, but not as a pawn in a great-power struggle. Peace must be built on realism, not rigid ideology.

World leaders must act now. The window for a diplomatic breakthrough is closing, and the consequences of failure are too great to ignore. If this war drags on indefinitely, it risks not only further destruction in Ukraine but also global instability. A protracted conflict feeds extremism, empowers ultra-right movements across the world, and erodes faith in democratic governance. History has shown us time and again: when leaders fail to resolve conflicts, it is the forces of division, radicalization, and authoritarianism that fill the vacuum.

This is a moment for the United States and its allies to reclaim moral leadership—not through unchecked military escalation, but through bold, strategic engagement. The world is watching. If America wants to lead, it must lead with vision, not vengeance.

Robert F. Kennedy once spoke of the “ripples of hope” that come when individuals stand up to make a difference. Today, the world needs a tidal wave of leadership to meet this moment. The alternative is clear: if we fail to act wisely now, we risk a future where conflict spirals further, democracy weakens, and the forces of destruction win the day.

There is still time—but not forever. The choice is ours.

Paul Alexander Wolf