A logical extension of this claim essentially forsakes any responsibility in eastern Europe or east Asia since both China and Russia can similarly claim it to be their own spheres of influence.

With all due respect, the current regime and its gangsterism is many things but it is not unprecedented. It is well within lines of what the US always done. You are more or less the same thing that you were 200 years ago.

There are robust institutions within these countries that are very good at stopping abuse of govt power. The greater danger has always been directed at people in poorer and less developed countries who aren't protected under such a mechanism. Life is going to be tough for them.

Went back to that other side out of curiosity. Came across something vile. Felt immediately disgusted and finally deleted the account. At some point I will feel the urge to go back. I just hope that I am able to resist that temptation this time.

Have been on other site for so long that I almost forgot that there was once a time where you could see who were liking what posts.

Just typed the keyword India into the search bar out of curiosity and didn't encounter even a single instance of racism on any of the posts. Feels slightly weird after spending so much time on that other side where racism and rage baiting was ubiquitous and couldn't be avoided.

Finally abandoned that toxic hell hole of a website. I have heard this place is similar but only nicer and way less toxic. That seems exciting but feel a little weird about not having any of mutuals around.