We each reach into what we know to find metaphors and similes – our family experiences, our educational and work experiences, and even our leisure activities. For me, the last of these includes gardening, astrophotography and Food Network among other TV genres. In the Food Network program, Iron Chef, contestants sometimes offer some ingredient prepared two or three different ways. Hence, Death Three Ways is my way of summarizing what will likely happen to Ukrainians during the current Russian invasion.
First, there will be death that is the direct result of war – bullets, shells, rockets, bombs and other munitions will inflict intentional as well as collateral deaths. That’s war straight up, isn’t it?
Second, the invading Russian forces, consisting of younger, healthier men of military age, will bring a significant burden of COVID. Russia is currently a hotbed of COVID cases; the disease is totally out of control there (see my previous post titled This Week in COVID). These soldiers will spread the virus throughout Ukraine, and there will be a significant toll on Ukraine’s elderly. War and Pestilence – it’s an old theme repeated throughout history.
Third, Ukraine’s healthcare infrastructure will collapse because of war injuries, COVID cases, and the targeted destruction of hospitals and clinics. We’ve seen this in the Middle East since 911 and relentlessly since then – most recently in Syria and Yemen. People who need life-saving healthcare for even common illnesses will die because there is no access to care or a shortage of essential supplies like medications and life support measures.
Like Revenge, Death is a dish best served cold, and it is very cold there right now. 🙁