The Highland Meeting held on November 24, 2024, in Utah focused on the complex issues surrounding Ukraine, particularly the themes of truth and misinformation. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the moral responsibilities of the United States in the context of international conflicts, drawing parallels with past U.S. engagements, notably in Afghanistan.

One of the key speakers raised the question of whether the United States holds any moral obligation regarding the situation in Ukraine, especially in light of Russia's actions. The speaker emphasized that while Russia has a clear moral responsibility, the U.S. must also reflect on its own commitments and responsibilities. This sentiment was underscored by referencing the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, where approximately 95,000 individuals who had assisted the U.S. were left behind despite promises of protection. The speaker expressed concern that this failure not only represented a breach of trust but also projected weakness on the global stage.

The discussion highlighted a broader concern about the implications of U.S. foreign policy decisions. The speaker warned that a repeat of the Afghan situation in Ukraine could further damage the U.S.'s reputation and credibility. This concern was particularly directed at isolationist and libertarian viewpoints, which the speaker argued often overlook the complexities of international obligations and the consequences of perceived inaction.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform for examining the ethical dimensions of U.S. involvement in global conflicts, urging a careful consideration of past lessons as the nation navigates its role in the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. The discussions underscored the importance of maintaining commitments to allies and the potential repercussions of failing to do so.