I cannot forget Mariuopl’s brave defenders.
Now, thrown into play by their surrender
to Putin and Russian offenders
of all that is sacred in Mary’s city.
Now, left to evildoers without pity.
Media seems to ignore this ignominy
replacing the glory of the sexier story
of fighting to the death, which has more cachet
as breaking news than a prisoner switch, any day.
Misplaced attention and failure to attend details
endangers Ukrainian defenders on the rails.
Instead of an exchange, they face trials,
and more victimization mile after mile
by the butchers who claim those who fought back
are war criminals, to cover their own tracks.
Mariupol’s men, women and children were blown off the map.
Ukraine’s borders scattered by Russia’s attempt to overlap
its peaceful neighbors, no longer members of the USSR.
Now seeking a new democratic order, looking afar
to The West whose history mirrors their own more fully.
Putin’s Russia determined to remain a USSR bully.
Now, Ukrainian heroes are more in need of our protection
and our media looking for its own glory screens off in defection.
Shine the light on heroes’ lives Russia bends to their destruction.
Use your news power to defend each hour of their lives and protect them.
annarino writes 