GA Woodward is a prolific writer and he understands well the world around us.

Mr Woodward wrote a beautiful letter to the SA on December 4 entitled “Russian trade needed”.

He wisely talked about the need of trade between Russia and Britain. I agree with him.

This country “needs this trade badly” with Russia, particularly in these difficult economic times we find ourselves in.

But Britain is following the direction of a bunch of Christian fundamentalists at Capitol Hill who will sink this world as Ahab did to the boat in the Melville’s Moby Dick.

Russia has won politically in the world arena. Therefore, to impose sanctions on Russia won’t be a wise revenge since these sanctions will also damage those who follow the dangerous policies of the US.

The US is crumbling from within. The latest figure indicates that more than half of its citizens live under poverty; jobless, homeless and foodless. However, its politicians ignore these cries. They think it’ll get better to wage another war. It is time to walk away from a burning house.

In the history of mankind, this is not a new story. We read of similar situations in the Roman era. When Rome was exhausted from its permanent wars abroad, finally she decayed within. Its citizens became psychologically tired. Its propaganda destroyed the minds of its citizens.They couldn’t think critically. Moreover, its resources were used by the tiny elites.

The world is a small place now. We need Russia as the Russians need us. It’s utter arrogance to say we can live without Russia’s trade.

Only those who are willing to come to the table and talk courageously will be the leaders of tomorrow. The world is tired of bloodshed, killing and conflicts. The people in power benefit from wars and conflicts.

Therefore, it is the responsibility of the people to take the road which leads to peace and prosperity.

If we want the human species to live, we have to love and respect one another. It is up to the people to either terminate the human species or to improve the quality of lives through love, peace and respect.

My favourite philosopher, Bertrand Russell, comes to mind when he said: “Shall we put an end to the human race; or shall mankind renounce war?”.

Axmed Bahjad Fleet Street Swindon