(Atlantic Council) Amb. Daniel B. Shapiro - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week described the future he sees for his country as "a big Israel," due to ongoing security concerns. If Zelenskyy really does have Israel in mind as a model for Ukraine, here are some key features he might consider for adoption. Security first: Every Israeli government promises, first and foremost, that it will deliver security - and knows it will be judged on this pledge. The whole population plays a role: Most young Israeli adults serve in the military. A common purpose unites the citizenry, making them ready to endure shared sacrifice. Civilians recognize their responsibility to follow security protocols. Some even arm themselves (though under strict supervision). Self-defense is the only way: Israel's security doctrine holds that Israel will defend itself, by itself - and rely on no other country to fight its battles. Don't depend on the guarantees of others, but maintain active defense partnerships. Intelligence dominance: Israel has invested deeply in its intelligence capabilities to ensure that it has the means to detect and deter its enemies - and, when needed, act proactively to strike them. The writer, a distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council, is a former U.S. ambassador to Israel.
2022-04-07 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive