On the moral significance of military operations: A response to Hans-Herbert Kögler

Abstract

Against pacifist calls for peace at any price in Ukraine, Hans-Herbert Kögler argues that the west has a moral obligation to support Ukraine in its war against Russia. Kögler’s argument is well-made. However, he does not mention the war at all. This may be an oversight because while moral principles may be universal, in practice, the context defines how morals are applied. Drawing on Clausewitz’s concept of the Trinity, this response seeks to develop Kögler’s moral argument by examining the practical, military implications of the war. It argues that because the war is heavily urbanised, the west’s moral commitment is likely to be very deep and long.