Comrades No More: Thoughts on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
Today is a very sad day. Russia’s offensive is heartbreaking for the death, suffering and economic misery it is causing in Ukraine and, indirectly, at least beyond. Here at Rick Steves’ Europe, we hope that a diplomatic solution will be found and that peace will return to this fragile and long-suffering part of our world.
Our mission at RSE is to help Americans better know and understand their neighbors through travel. But when we bring travelers to another country, we also bring their dollars — dollars that support Putin’s aggression. Therefore, as of today, we have canceled all 2022 tours including a stop in Russia.
Of course, we will be keeping a close eye on developments and monitoring the travel impact in the rest of Europe. But it is important to bear in mind the geographical realities and remember that a war in Ukraine is as far removed from our European vacation dreams as a war in Guatemala is from Texas or Florida. For over 40 years now, we’ve lived, worked and traveled through many tragic war-torn areas far from where we lead our tours (and some closer). And at this point, we see no reason to change the rest of our travel and touring plans.
The tragic reality unfolding in Ukraine only reminds me how important it is for Americans to continue to travel and to do so in a way that makes us better and more engaged citizens of our world. I’m heading to Europe next month for a 40-day trip from London to Athens through a dozen great cities—and I’m proud that thousands of my fellow travelers will experience the European trip of their dreams while the 2022 Rick Steves tour offers rich learning experiences away from home.
In the meantime, let’s give thanks for our blessings, support our nation’s leaders as they do their best to deal with this crisis, and keep troubled corners of our world (Ukraine, Russia, Afghanistan and more) in our thoughts and prayers.
-papaya
