Showers this morning becoming less numerous during the afternoon hours. High around 65F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60%..
Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low around 55F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph.
Updated: March 31, 2026 @ 10:29 am
Editor,
The Christmas Truce of 1914. Ancient history right? Hardly that, since what happened was a realization by both warring forces, faced off against one another after five months of mutual slaughter in the mud of France, that it was all for no rational purpose. The troops of both sides heard one another singing the same Christmas carols and realized that maybe they shouldn’t be out there killing each other when they have so much in common.
Here we are over a hundred years later and, once again, soldiers with more in common than not are in the mud. The entire conduct of this war resembles a proxy conflict with limited political aims. One side invaded and the other can’t respond across the border in response. One side will inherit a moonscape of ruin while the other is not touched. The solution is political much as the conflict is bizarre.
We join with many religious and unreligious groups and individuals in demanding a ceasefire in place and negotiations by all sides. There is no “winning” to be had by any of the combatants; no redeployment or resupply by any side; neutral monitors should observe and report in real time to ensure compliance. Too many other man-made follies need to be addressed and need worldwide cooperation, such as the polluting of the air, water and land. This is the perfect time to call a halt to it all. Sign on to the Christmas Truce website at christmasappeal.ipb.org/sign-the-petition.
Mike Caggiano
San Mateo
The letter writer represents Peace Action of San Mateo County.
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(4) comments
Mr. Caggiano, it takes two to tango and if Ukraine won’t agree to a ceasefire or talks until Russia withdraws from Ukraine, why would Russia cede their advantage since by all appearances, they’re “winning”? BTW, are we sure those in charge in Russia and Ukraine believe in Christmas?
Ha ha ha good joke Terrence. No we don't know what they believe but this is the only game in town unless more death and destruction is the goal. I believe you recommended Antiwar.com as a good source. Have you been keeping up with their articles on this topic? They pretty much say what I'm saying.
Mr. Caggiano, I’m all for a ceasefire and negotiations but as usual, the devil is in the details and when you make unreasonable conditions before you’ll agree to a ceasefire or talks, you’ll get a reasonable answer to pound sand, while continuing to get pounded. As for antiwar.com, I occasionally scan the headlines to see if there’s anything of note. BTW, I do agree with what you’re saying in your letter – can you get Ukraine and Russia on board, as well as stop the meddling by other countries? And is there any such thing as “neutral monitors” these days?
Good response Terence. Yes a sound working agreement to separate the forces and as you mentioned a credible monitor.
The Turks have been quite competent thus far in the negotiations etc.
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