A Framework for Sustaining Peace After the Russia-Ukraine War

America First Global CEO Gentry Beach recently published an op-ed in Townhall examining what it takes to sustain peace after the fighting in Ukraine ends.

The central argument: ending active conflict is only the first step. History shows that postwar settlements fail not due to a lack of agreements, but because the economic realities that follow are ignored.

As Beach writes:

This time, peace cannot rest on paper guarantees. It must be enforced by American power, anchored in economic diplomacy, and sustained by mutual self-interest. The United States must lead a framework where commerce, reconstruction, and market access become the incentives that make renewed war irrational for all parties.

The column outlines why ceasefires and security guarantees alone are insufficient. Without credible economic frameworks, postwar regions remain unstable, investment declines, and incentives for renewed conflict persist. Reconstruction, trade, energy, and commercial engagement are central to lasting peace.

This reflects a core principle of economic diplomacy: markets and business relationships often offer more durable incentives for stability than political declarations. When economic activity relies on peace, disruption is self-defeating.

Beach also stresses the need for realism. A sustainable postwar framework must address enforcement, regional security dynamics, and the limitations of international institutions. Peace is maintained by systems that align incentives over time, not by intent alone.

Check out the full piece on Townhall.com.