Over the last week we have watched in horror as the fundamental principles of democracy, sovereignty, and free speech have been challenged by an authoritarian "leader" grasping to archaic miltaristic ambitions.
Make no mistake: this is Putin's, not Russia's, war.
At the same time, we are inspired by the brave acts of the Ukrainian people valiantly fighting for their land, identity, and freedom. Perhaps more importantly, they are fighting for the democratic principles the world holds dear.
Putin's actions are not reflective of the beliefs and intent of the whole of Russia. However, after discussing with our team in Moscow we have collectively decided to pause all Founder Institute operations in the country until further notice. We are also in close contact with our Founder Institute Kyiv Team and will help them in any way we can.
A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus" - Martin Luther King, Jr.
We implore Putin to be a genuine leader by listening to his people, listening to the world, and stopping this unprovoked attack on Ukraine.
