After World War II, the United States took a larger role in world affairs. This support was initially to assist countries resisting communist expansion, but after the fall of the Soviet Union has generally been to support democracy around the globe. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States and its allies began sending military aid to Ukrainians to assist in their war but so far have not become directly involved in the conflict.   

Those who argue that the United States should increase military aid to Ukraine say that we should support other countries when they are attacked. They claim that because the United States is a superpower, it has an obligation to help weaker nations like Ukraine defend themselves . Additionally, they may argue that it is in our best interest to assist the Ukrainians further to ensure that Russia and its autocratic leader, Vladimir Putin, are defeated and don’t grow in strength.  

Those who oppose increasing military aid to Ukraine argue that the United States should increase its focus on domestic issues. They may argue that we have contributed enough to help Ukraine, and now some issues like inflation are more pressing. This side may also contend that the United States should not take on as active of a role in global affairs and therefore be more skeptical of the benefits of assisting Ukraine.  

So, what do you think? Should the United States increase military aid to Ukraine? Students may answer: Yes, they should; No, they should not; or a nuanced answer in between! Be sure to submit your responses by October 6th to have a chance at winning this week’s prize.  

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:      

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner     
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers      
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors      
• They address counterarguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner      
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly   

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP!

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag.

This question will run from 9/22/22 to 10/5/22, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!

(For rules/regulations click HERE)